Michigan State Police Detective Sergeant Brian Keeley has been charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter in the death of Samuel Sterling. The charges were filed by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, following an incident where Keeley fatally injured Sterling by striking him with his car during an arrest attempt on April 17.
The charges put forth include second-degree murder, which carries a potential life sentence, and alternatively, involuntary manslaughter, which could result in a fifteen-year prison term. Attorney General Nessel commented that Keeley’s actions were “grossly negligent” and posed a significant risk of death or serious bodily harm that could have otherwise been avoided. Nessel emphasized that public integrity is paramount and the case was reviewed thoroughly.
The incident occurred when the Michigan State Police Sixth District Fugitive Task Force, which included Keeley, tried to apprehend Sterling on multiple warrants. According to reports, Sterling fled on foot before stopping in a parking lot, where Keeley then struck him with his vehicle (JURIST).
The investigation of the fatal incident was conducted by the Fifth District Investigative Response Team (IRT), a unit consisting of specially trained detectives from a district other than Keeley’s. The IRT’s findings led to Keeley’s suspension pending the outcome. The case was subsequently handed over to the Attorney General for further review (Michigan State Police).
The date for Keeley’s arraignment has yet to be set, and further comments or information from the Attorney General’s office will not be forthcoming.