A Queens man’s violent encounter with NYPD officers leads to a 39-year prison sentence, sparking a fierce rebuke from the judge.
At a Glance
- Devin Spraggins, 24, sentenced to 39 years to life for shooting NYPD Officer Brett Boller.
- Incident began with a fight on an MTA bus in Jamaica, Queens on April 5, 2023.
- Spraggins shot Officer Boller in the leg and attempted to fire again, but his gun malfunctioned.
- Judge Kenneth Holder delivered a scathing critique of Spraggins’ actions during sentencing.
- Officer Boller was promoted to detective following the incident.
Violent Confrontation Leads to Lengthy Sentence
In a case that underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement, Devin Spraggins, a 24-year-old Queens resident, has been sentenced to 39 years to life in prison for the shooting of NYPD Officer Brett Boller. The incident, which occurred on April 5, 2023, in Jamaica, Queens, began with a dispute on an MTA bus and escalated into a violent confrontation with police.
Spraggins was convicted of attempted murder and other charges related to the shooting of Officer Boller, who was a rookie at the time with less than a year on the force. The confrontation began when Spraggins aggressively confronted another passenger on the bus, leading to police intervention. During the ensuing chase, Spraggins shot Boller in the right hip, causing injuries that required extensive recovery and multiple surgeries.
A defendant was sentenced today to 39 years to life for the attempted murder of an NYPD officer in April 2023, among other charges.
The officer and his partner were on routine patrol when they confronted the defendant after he assaulted a bus passenger. https://t.co/x7qB2bguec pic.twitter.com/Cbwa4KSYKl
— Queens DA Katz (@QueensDAKatz) December 2, 2024
Judge’s Scathing Rebuke
During the sentencing, Judge Kenneth Holder delivered a blistering critique of Spraggins’ actions, highlighting the severity of the crime and its impact on Officer Boller’s life and career. The judge’s words resonated with many who believe in the importance of protecting those who serve and protect our communities.
“For me, the defining moment in this case was not that you shot Police Officer Boller in the leg. It’s that you, not knowing the magazine had fallen out of the gun and while watching Police Officer Boller on the ground screaming in pain, you pointed your gun at him and you pulled the trigger. You effectively tried to execute him.” – Judge Kenneth Holder
The judge’s remarks underscored the gravity of Spraggins’ actions, particularly his attempt to fire at Officer Boller a second time, which was only prevented by a fortuitous gun malfunction. This act was described by the Assistant District Attorney as an attempted execution, emphasizing the life-threatening nature of the assault on the officer.
Impact on Law Enforcement and Community
The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by police officers in the line of duty and the severe consequences for those who attack them. Officer Boller’s promotion to detective following the incident highlights the NYPD’s recognition of his service and sacrifice. The NYPD PBA president praised the judge’s decision, emphasizing the message it sends about the consequences of assaulting police officers.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz highlighted the incident’s origin from a dispute over a bus seat, underscoring how quickly everyday situations can escalate into life-altering events. The case serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of law enforcement work and the importance of supporting those who put their lives on the line to protect our communities.
Sources:
- Judge scolds convicted NYPD cop-shooter in sentencing smackdown: ‘You didn’t give a damn’
- Man sentenced in 2023 shooting of rookie NYPD Officer Brett Boller in Queens
- Man who shot rookie NYPD cop ripped by judge: ‘Didn’t give a damn about his life’
