On November 21, 2024, Judge John Brick of the 272nd District Court in Bryan, Texas, sentenced Eamest Johnson to 40 years in prison for Aggravated Assault on a Public Servant, stemming from a 2018 incident.
On September 13, 2018, a Bryan Police Department officer responded to reports of a person in the roadway near downtown Bryan. The officer located Johnson outside the LaSalle Hotel and observed drug paraphernalia on him. When the officer attempted to detain Johnson, he fled but tripped in the hotel courtyard.
As the officer approached, Johnson turned and began attacking him. A longtime downtown resident called 911, and another bystander who was on a date intervened to help the officer. Together, they restrained Johnson until additional officers arrived. It ultimately took more than five officers to subdue and arrest him. A search revealed a small amount of crack cocaine in Johnson's sock.
The officer sustained a dislocated shoulder requiring surgery and was unable to return to duty for six months.
Johnson waived his right to a jury trial, and the case was heard by Judge Brick. Testimonies from witnesses, the officer, and the ER doctor who treated him were presented in court. Johnson testified in his own defense but denied any wrongdoing. On August 27, 2024, Judge Brick found Johnson guilty.
At the punishment hearing, prosecutors highlighted Johnson’s criminal history, which included three prior prison sentences for Burglary of a Building, Burglary of a Habitation with Intent to Commit Sexual Assault, and Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registration. These prior convictions elevated his sentencing range to a minimum of 25 years.
Assistant District Attorneys Ryan Golden and Stephanie Younis prosecuted the case, with support from Investigators James Woodward and Kindale Pittman and Victim Assistance Coordinator Mandie James.
Johnson will now serve a 40-year prison sentence for his actions.
“Members of this community stepped in to protect and serve when an injured public servant needed help. It is our honor to stand with them in prosecuting this case.”, said Assistant District Attorneys Ryan Golden and Stephanie Younis in a statement.
