Devin Spraggins stood emotionless inside a Queens courtroom Monday as state Supreme Court Justice Judge Kenneth Holder ordered him to serve 39 years to life behind bars after being found guilty of attempting to murder a police officer last year.
The Incident
The journey to Monday’s sentencing began on April 5, 2023, when prosecutors said Spraggins got into a fight with a bus rider at around 3:20 p.m. over a seat as the vehicle traveled along Jamaica Avenue and 161st Street. While the commuter bested Spraggins by putting him in a headlock, the MTA driver stopped near NYPD Officers Anthony Rock and Brett Boller for help. However, Spraggins pushed Rock and took off running, with the then newly recruited officers giving chase.
During the pursuit, as Boller caught up to the suspect, he turned and shot at the cop at point-blank range. The bullet tore through Boller’s femoral artery and vein and shattered his hip. But Spraggins was not done there. Court documents show that he stood over the cop — who was screaming in agony — and pulled the trigger again. Incredibly, when Spraggins attempted to assassinate the cop, no bullets emerged from the chamber since he had accidentally and unknowingly dislodged the gun’s magazine.
The Trial
Officer Rock caught up to his partner, sending the gunman fleeing. Cops eventually found Spraggins hiding out in a Bronx apartment several days later and arrested him on attempted murder charges. During the trial, experts gave testimony that without immediate medical assistance, Boller would have likely perished from his wound. He needed several surgeries and had to have his hip reconstructed, leaving him in constant pain and walking with a limp. He was just 22 at the time of the shooting.
The incident was so traumatic to Officer Rock that he wound up retiring early from the NYPD.
The Sentence
In an attempt to provide his client with a lighter sentence, defense attorney Michael Horn called Spraggins’ trial a "waste of time." Horn argued that due to copious amounts of evidence, including video footage, the outcome was academic, and Spraggins looked to face trial as a form of self-punishment.
However, Judge Holder responded that the court remained undeterred, arguing that the full sentence against Spraggins was justified due to his actions that nearly cost an officer his life.
The Reaction
Boller limped out of the courthouse and joined police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry outside of the courthouse, who rejoiced over the sentencing.
"What this judge did today is he sent a clear message to every courtroom, every courthouse across this city, to every bench, that if you assault a New York City police officer — if you shoot a New York City police officer, you’re going to stay behind bars for a long, long time," Hendry said.
Conclusion
The sentence handed down by Judge Holder sends a clear message that attempting to murder a police officer will be met with severe consequences. The bravery and quick thinking of Officer Boller, who was nearly killed by Spraggins, was instrumental in bringing the defendant to justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the sentence handed down to Devin Spraggins?
A: 39 years to life behind bars.
Q: What was the motive behind the attempted murder of Officer Boller?
A: The motive is unclear, but Spraggins had a history of violence and had been involved in a fight with a bus rider earlier that day.
Q: What was the reaction of the police union leaders to the sentence?
A: Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry rejoiced over the sentencing, saying it sent a clear message that attempting to assault a police officer will result in severe consequences.
Q: What is the condition of Officer Boller today?
A: Officer Boller continues to serve on the NYPD in a restricted capacity, but will never likely be able to return to full service like he had prior to the incident.
