Two Victoria Police officers have been charged with negligent manslaughter following the death of Luke Briggs, 35, who died after being arrested in a car park in Hoppers Crossing in July 2024. The constable, 29, and sergeant, 45, were suspended after the incident and are set to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday.
Briggs was arrested in a convenience store car park and became unresponsive at the scene. He died eight days later at Royal Melbourne Hospital. The charges were laid on Thursday following an investigation by the homicide squad, overseen by the Professional Standards Command.
Sarah Condon, solicitor for the Briggs family, said they were 'utterly distraught' by his death and subsequent delays in the case. The family has declined further comment due to the ongoing criminal proceedings.
Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam acknowledged the news would be difficult for the family, stating that Victoria Police does not shy away from taking action to uphold community trust. She emphasised that thorough investigations are vital regardless of rank.
At the time of his death, Briggs' family released a statement describing his final hours in intensive care, wearing his favourite Bunnings jumper, with beer by his side and surrounded by loved ones. They said, 'We will miss you, Luke. We don’t know how we can go on without you.'
