A 20-year-old man has been charged with the murder of PC Andrew Harper, who was killed on Thursday night while investigating a burglary in rural Berkshire.
Jed Foster, from Reading, will appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
The 28-year-old officer was killed while attending a suspected burglary near the village of Sulhamstead.
The PC’s wife, Lissie, has released a tribute, calling him “the kindest, loveliest, most selfless person” and adding: “My darling boy I do not know how I will be able to survive without you.”
Lissie Harper said of her husband:
“Anyone who was lucky enough to meet you, whether they knew you as Andrew, Andy, Uncle Mann, Harps or PC Harper … to everyone you are a hero.
“You had the best sense of humour and never took life too seriously. You treasured every moment and always had a smile on your face.
“I want to be angry that your job took you away from us but I know you loved it and always wanted to keep everyone safe, especially me. You went the extra mile whenever you could and genuinely cared for everyone.
“The lights have dimmed on all of our lives now that you are no longer here, but it’s no surprise that even when you’re gone, you’re still keeping us all going, knowing that you would tell us to carry on and stay strong.
“I can’t begin to imagine a life without your silly jokes, size 14 feet, large appetite, big hugs, Sunday roasts, and never faltering positive attitude. You kept me going if I was down and took care of us all until the last.
“My heart is broken without you my sweetheart but my god I feel so lucky that it was me you chose to share your amazing life with. You have imprinted so much love and laughter onto all of our lives and we are honoured for that.
“Although we were married for only 28 days before you were cruelly taken away from me, my husband you were perfect. I will never ever stop loving you and I feel so grateful for the happiest 13 years of my life.
“Our superman, our bodyguard, our light in the dark. My god we will miss you. Forever you will be remembered as the best of us. I will carry your love with me always.
“Your loving wife, Lissie x.”
Chief crown prosecutor, Jaswant Narwal, said: “Following the death of PC Harper in Berkshire, the Crown Prosecution Service has today authorised Thames Valley Police to charge Jed Foster, 20, with murder and the theft of a quad bike.
“We will offer to meet with PC Harper’s family to explain the basis of the decision we have made following a lengthy review of the evidence available.”
He added: “May I remind all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Foster are now active and that he has a right to a fair trial.
“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”