A Louisiana man is facing federal murder charges and a potential death sentence after allegedly killing a Deputy U.S. Marshal who was serving an arrest warrant.
Clarence A. Frazier Jr., 48, of Alexandria, is accused of barricading himself inside his home and opening fire on law enforcement officers on July 13. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana announced the charges Tuesday.
Authorities identified the slain officer as Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson. Officials described Hanson as a devoted husband, father, and son. "Tragically, the defendant's alleged actions claimed the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer who was simply doing his duty," said Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche. "The alleged perpetrator is now in custody and will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law."
The incident occurred when members of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office went to Frazier's residence to serve an arrest warrant related to a prior sexual battery charge. According to the federal criminal complaint, Frazier had failed to appear in state court to face trial on a charge of sexual battery of a person with infirmities.
After announcing their presence, officers forced entry into the home. Frazier allegedly barricaded himself in a bedroom and fired at the officers, striking Hanson. Following a standoff, Frazier was taken into custody. Hanson later died from his injuries.
Frazier is charged with the murder of a federal officer. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of life in prison or the death penalty.