Sergeant James Fitzgerald and Constable Alexander Papanastassis charged with manslaughter following Luke Briggs’ arrest death

Two Victoria Police officers have faced court a day after they were charged with causing the death of a man during an arrest. Sergeant James Fitzgerald, 45, and Constable Alexander Papanastassis, 29, briefly appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday morning, as a charge of negligent manslaughter was formally filed against the pair. Neither man was required to speak as Magistrate Olivia Trumble fixed a timeline for the progress of the case. “Mr Papanastassis and Mr Fitzgerald stand up please,” she said. “Your matter is now listed for a committal mention hearing on the 12th of December, your bail is extended until that date.” On Thursday, Victoria Police announced homicide squad detectives had formally charged the two officers over the death of Melbourne builder Luke Briggs, 35, last year. Mr Briggs was rushed to hospital after he became unresponsive during an arrest at a 7-Eleven carpark in Hoppers Crossing on July 15. He died in hospital eight days later. At the time, Victoria Police said Mr Briggs had become aggressive while he was being questioned over a minor traffic matter. According to police, the two officers were placed on suspension following the incident while an investigation was carried out. Mr Briggs’ family held a memorial to mark the first anniversary of his death. “While the rest of the world has moved on, our family is stuck in July 2024,” his sister Catherine said. “Our world has stopped and whilst the delays continue, our trauma is not dealt with, our grief is not dealt with, and we are unable to let go.” In a statement, Public Safety and Security Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said her thoughts were with the Briggs family. “I understand the news today will be concerning and difficult for many in the community; however, 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. “The overwhelming majority of our police do the right thing day in and day out and provide exemplary service to the community. Today’s update should not take away from their efforts more broadly. “However, it is vital that where incidents such as this occur, they are investigated thoroughly regardless of a police officer’s rank, position or tenure.” The Police Association of Victoria has vowed to stand by the two officers and support them “as they navigate the difficult path ahead”. Sergeant Fitzgerald and Constable Papanastassis did not answer questions from reporters as they left court.