Overview

• Constable Alexander Papanastassis and Sergeant James Fitzgerald appeared briefly at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court and were granted bail as their case moves to a December 12 committal mention.
• Prosecutors told the court that CCTV and body‑worn camera footage has been obtained, with both officers having surrendered their passports and required to notify police of any change of address.
• The officers were charged by Homicide Squad detectives in connection with Luke Briggs’ July 2024 arrest in a Hoppers Crossing convenience‑store car park, after which he became unresponsive and died eight days later.
• Deputy Commissioner Wendy Steendam said the case was investigated with Professional Standards oversight and emphasized the importance of thorough scrutiny to maintain public confidence.
• Police Association Victoria pledged full support for the officers, while the Briggs family and their lawyer expressed ongoing distress and frustration over delays and unanswered questions.