A 32-year-old man, Travis Garrett, was sentenced after intentionally driving his car into a police cruiser back in January 2021 during a high-speed chase. This resulted in the death of Sergeant Brian LaVigne, who was just hours away from retiring from the force after more than 30 years.
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According to a Florida's Office of the State Attorney press release, Travis Garrett was sentenced to 45 years in prison. He had previously to second-degree murder, fleeing to elude high speed (serious bodily injury or death), battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer with violence and criminal mischief, according to PEOPLE.
As per the New York Post, police first became acquainted with Travis Garrett on January 11, 2021. They responded to reports of an individual throwing furniture out of a Brandon apartment's window and front door. However, deputies at the time did not find a cause to arrest Garrett at the time.
LaVigne Murdered
They would, however, receive a report hours later, indicating that Garret was "acting erractically" and that he was naked. When confronted, Garrett assaulted a police officer in the head. Despite being tased multiple times, Garrett hopped in his car and drove away, breaking through the apartment's entrance. Eventually, he rammed his car against LaVigne's vehicle.
LaVigne was trapped inside his vehicle. Unfortunately, after being rushed to a local hospital, he was pronounced dead. He was only hours away from finishing his last shift with the force after serving for over 30 years.
Travis Garrett, meanwhile, was left paralyzed. He was arrested and charged with the aforementioned charges. Eventually, he reached a plea agreement that resulted in his 45-year sentence. LaVigne's family agreed with the deal. They didn't want to endure a long and painful trial, as per the Post.
State Attorney Suzy Lopez issued a statement following Garrett's sentencing.
"This senseless crime robbed a family of a tremendous father and husband who deserved a long and happy retirement with the family he built," Lopez said. "While this sentence can never bring Sgt. LaVigne back, it ensures this defendant will spend the majority of his life behind bars while allowing the victim's family a chance at healing without a lengthy trial."
Suzy Lopez then called Sergeant Biran LaVigne a hero who "served his community until his last day." She added that LaVigne's life and legacy "will never be forgotten," a sentiment shared by LaVigne's family.
