Negligent manslaughter charges have been laid against two Victorian police officers after a man died following his arrest in a car park, with the lawyer for his family saying they had been left distraught by his passing and delays in the case.
Luke Briggs, 35, was arrested in a convenience store car park at Hoppers Crossing, in Melbourne’s southwest, in July 2024. He became unresponsive at the scene and died eight days later at Royal Melbourne Hospital.
The two male officers involved, a constable, 29 and sergeant, 45, were suspended after the incident.
They were charged on Thursday and will face Melbourne magistrates court on Friday.
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Robinson Gill lawyers’ Sarah Condon, the solicitor for Briggs’ family, said in a statement: “It is plain to see that the family of Luke Briggs have been left utterly distraught by the death of their loved one, Luke, and the subsequent delays in the case.
“They cannot further publicly comment on the matter at this point however, given criminal proceedings have now been commenced against the two Victoria Police officers involved in his death.”
Victoria police’s deputy commissioner, Wendy Steendam, said she was aware news of the charges would be concerning and difficult for the family.
“I want to reassure them that Victoria police does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust and confidence in our organisation,” she said.
It was vital that such incidents were investigated thoroughly regardless of an officer’s rank, Steendam said, adding that the overwhelming majority of police did the right thing.
“Our thoughts today are also with the Briggs family and we will ensure they continue to have a range of support services in place as the matter progresses,” she said.
The incident was investigated by the homicide squad and overseen by the Professional Standards Command, an internal police branch that examines officers’ conduct.
Briggs’ family said in a statement released at the time of his death that he died in an intensive care unit wearing his favourite Bunnings jumper, beer by his side and surrounded by his loved ones.
“In his final hours, we shared stories and reminded Luke how much we loved him while his favourite songs played in the background.
“We will miss you, Luke. We don’t know how we can go on without you.”
