Victoria Police officer Alexander Papanastassis, 29, has been charged with negligent manslaughter following the death of Hoppers Crossing man Luke Briggs, who died eight days after his arrest in July 2024.
Papanastassis and fellow officer James Fitzgerald, 45, were both suspended after the incident. The officers have been granted bail but were ordered to surrender their passports. They are due back in court in December.
Police Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam acknowledged the charges may concern the public, saying, “Victoria Police does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust and confidence in our organisation.”
Wayne Gatt, Secretary of the Police Association Victoria, emphasised union support for the officers, noting, “Two of our members have been charged as the result of an on-duty incident… We will be by their side and support them fully as they navigate the difficult path ahead.”
Source: ABC.
