INDIANAPOLIS – United States Attorney Joseph Hogsett presented United States Attorney’s Awards recently to Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Gerry Torres and Marion County Sheriff’s Office Major Michael Hubbs for their outstanding contribution to a persecution resulting in a plea deal in United States v. Jamel H. Brown.
On August 8th, 2011, Jamel Brown led IMPD Officer Joshua Fritsche on a high-speed car chase on Indianapolis’ east side, eventually fleeing on foot to a nearby hotel. At the hotel, Brown brutally attacked Officer Fritsche, knocking him unconscious. Three witnesses chased after Brown as he left the hotel. Brown pointed a Tec-9 semiautomatic handgun at each of the three men, and pulled the trigger, but the weapon did not discharge. Brown ran back into the hotel and took one guest hostage until IMPD SWAT officers entered the room and arrested Brown.
IMPD Evidence Technician Gerry Torres’ thorough investigation of the crime scene recovered Brown’s Tec-9, a loaded magazine and one round of ammunition.
Based upon the evidence collected by Officer Torres and the investigation conducted by Captain Michael Hubbs, Brown ultimately plead guilty to being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. Brown was sentenced to by the federal court to 400 months in prison. Brown appealed his sentence to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, but his appeal was denied. He is scheduled to be released from prison in the year 2040.
Officer Joshua Fritsche was also acknowledged for his bravery in the events leading to Brown’s arrest.
“Because of the efforts of Officer Torres and Deputy Hubbs a dangerous felon was arrested, convicted, and put away for a long time”, said IMPD Chief Rick Hite. “I am proud to serve and live in a city were law enforcement partners at all levels work together to make our community a safer place.”
