Two Victoria Police officers have denied charges of negligent manslaughter in connection with the death of Luke Briggs, a 35-year-old builder who died eight days after his arrest. Constable Alexander Papanastassis, 30, and Sergeant James Fitzgerald, 46, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates' Court, where they entered pleas of not guilty.
Briggs was arrested on July 15, 2024, in a car park in Hoppers Crossing, a suburb of Melbourne, over alleged traffic-related offenses. According to court testimony, officers approached Briggs after spotting a suspicious vehicle. Briggs allegedly became evasive when asked for his details. During an attempt to detain him, a struggle ensued, during which officers reported being overpowered. They used batons and pepper spray foam, and eventually a "seatbelt hold" technique, to subdue Briggs before handcuffing him.
After being turned onto his side, officers noted Briggs was not breathing. CPR was administered until paramedics arrived, and he was transported to Royal Melbourne Hospital. He remained in an induced coma and died eight days later, with his life support turned off while surrounded by family. He was reportedly wearing his Bunnings jumper and had a beer by his bedside.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Briggs had a history of erratic behavior and run-ins with the law, with police knowing him for years. Allegations against him included multiple driving offenses, handling stolen goods, and dealing with suspected stolen property. He was also accused of stealing significant quantities of insulation batts and was allegedly transporting them in an overloaded vehicle at the time of his arrest. The court also heard details of alleged violent incidents, including property damage and assault.
Evidence found by police at the scene suggested potential drug involvement, including an ice pipe, digital scales, and substances consistent with methamphetamine. The court heard Briggs had purchased methamphetamine earlier that day, though it remains unclear if toxicology reports confirmed its presence in his system at the time of the arrest.
Briggs's female passenger, who reportedly fled the scene when police stopped the vehicle, has an extensive criminal record and is expected to testify. The Police Association of Victoria has stated its support for the two officers, emphasizing the challenging circumstances faced by law enforcement in protecting the community.
The hearing for the manslaughter charges is ongoing. 
