Ex-Trooper's Murder Charge Reinstated in 11-Year-Old's Death During Chase
An appeals court has reinstated a murder charge against former New York state trooper Christopher Baldner in the 2020 death of Monica Goods during a high-speed chase. The decision sparks debate on law enforcement practices.
In a significant legal development, an appeals court has reinstated a murder charge against Christopher Baldner, a former New York state trooper, in connection with the death of 11-year-old Monica Goods. The incident, which occurred during a high-speed chase in December 2020, has reignited discussions about law enforcement practices and accountability.
The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of New York, in a 4-1 ruling, determined that Baldner instigated "perilous, unsanctioned high-speed collisions" during two pursuits, including the one that resulted in Monica Goods' death. This decision overturns a previous dismissal of the murder charge by a trial judge.
New York Attorney General Letitia James, who became the first woman of color to hold statewide office in New York when elected in 2018, expressed support for the court's decision. She stated that it would allow her office to continue seeking justice for the Goods family.
"As a former state trooper, Christopher Baldner was responsible for serving and protecting the people of New York, but the indictment alleges that he violated that sacred oath and used his vehicle as a deadly weapon, resulting in the senseless death of a young girl."
The incident unfolded on the New York State Thruway, a 570-mile controlled-access highway system, in Ulster County, located in the picturesque Hudson Valley region. According to witness accounts presented to a grand jury, Baldner stopped the Goods family's SUV for speeding. After a verbal altercation with Monica's father, Baldner deployed pepper spray into the vehicle.
The family, en route to a holiday visit with relatives, drove away from the scene. Baldner pursued and allegedly rammed the SUV twice, causing it to overturn multiple times, resulting in Monica's death. This tragic event occurred nearly four years ago, on December 20, 2020.
The New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association, representing state troopers, expressed strong disagreement with the court's decision. The union voiced concerns that the ruling could negatively impact law enforcement officers' ability to perform their duties effectively.
Baldner, who retired in 2022, faces additional charges of manslaughter that have remained in place throughout the legal proceedings. The concept of "depraved indifference," a key element in second-degree murder charges in New York, has been a point of contention in this case.
As the legal process continues, Baldner remains free on $100,000 bail. The case has sparked a broader debate about the risks associated with high-speed police chases and the balance between law enforcement duties and public safety.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences of high-speed pursuits, which have long been a controversial topic in law enforcement circles. As the case progresses, it will likely continue to draw attention to policies and practices surrounding police chases and the use of force.
