Shocking Twist in Death of Luke Briggs: Two Police Officers Charged with Negligent Manslaughter and Granted Bail
- James Fitzgerald and Alexander Papanastassis, both police officers, face court over the death of 35-year-old Luke Briggs, who died eight days after his arrest in Melbourne’s south-west last year.
- The officers, aged 45 and 29, have been charged with negligent manslaughter and were granted bail, but ordered to surrender their passports.
- Their case will return to court in December, sparking concerns and emotions among the community and police union, with Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam assuring the public that the force “does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust and confidence.”
Two police officers, James Fitzgerald, 45, and Alexander Papanastassis, 29, have been charged with negligent manslaughter over the death of Luke Briggs, who tragically passed away eight days after his arrest in Melbourne’s south-west last year.
The officers faced the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where they were granted bail but ordered to surrender their passports. Their case will return to court in December, leaving many in the community reeling.
Luke Briggs, 35, was arrested in July 2024 and subsequently died in hospital eight days later. The incident sparked an investigation by the Professional Standards Command, which led to the suspension of both officers.
Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam referenced the case, saying, “I understand the news today will be concerning and difficult for many in the community. However, I want to reassure them that Victoria Police does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust and confidence in our organisation.”
Meanwhile, Secretary of the Police Association Victoria Wayne Gatt stood by the union’s members, stating, “Two of our members have been charged as the result of an on-duty incident that relates to them doing their job. Today, 18,000 other police and PSOs will be doing that same job and may well encounter the same challenging circumstances these members faced. We will be by their side and support them fully as they navigate the difficult path ahead.”