Man who intentionally hit Texas officer deploying spike strips sentenced to life in prison

Officer Matthew Brazeal was dragged more than 100 feet as a result of the 2020 collision; he underwent 60 surgeries and extensive rehab

January 30, 2024 12:51 PM

Man who intentionally hit Texas officer while he was deploying spike strips sentenced to life in prison — Brazeal is still recovering from the incident and recently returned to light duty police work nearly four years later, according to the report.

By Joanna Putman
Police1

FORT WORTH, Texas — A man who intentionally rammed into a police officer during a pursuit has been sentenced to life in prison, NBC DFW reported.

Fort Worth Police Officer Matthew Brazeal was severely injured when Ronnie Jackson swerved and hit him in June 2020, according to the report. The collision dragged Brazeal more than 100 feet.

The incident occurred when officers initiated a traffic stop, according to an earlier report from NBC DFW. Jackson fled the stop and hit Brazeal while he was trying to deploy spike strips.

Brazeal is still recovering from the incident and recently returned to light duty police work nearly four years later, according to the report.

According to a FOX 4 report, Brazeal underwent 60 surgeries and extensive rehab following the incident. His injuries included a broken pelvis and ribs, a collapsed lung and a brain injury.

Jackson was found guilty of aggravated assault of a peace officer with a deadly weapon, according to the report. He was sentenced to life in prison on Jan. 29.