A former New York state trooper was sentenced to two-and-a-half to seven-and-a-half years in prison for his role in the death of an 11-year-old Brooklyn girl back in 2020.
Monica Goods died after her father fled a traffic stop at high speed.
“Daddy, stop”
Judge Bryan Rounds sentenced Christopher Baldner for contributing to Goods’ death. Baldner was stoic as he received the sentence, which was half the 15-year maximum for second-degree manslaughter. Judge Rounds said justice was only half served, and that he listened to the victim. Monica had called out “Daddy, stop,” during her tense final moments.
Monica’s father, Tristin Goods, had been caught speeding and refused to show identification during the traffic stop. Baldner used pepper spray, then gave chase when Goods drove off at high speed. Baldner rammed their SUV twice. There was a crash, and Monica was killed.
Anthony Ricco, Baldner’s defense attorney, said Goods’ actions “have to factor in. [Tristin Goods] knows none of this had to happen.”
Goods was never charged, and left without comment.
“Today is justice”
The case prompted ongoing protests. Judge Rounds said many rushed to judgment in advance of having all the facts.
“We’ll be filing a notice of appeal. Chris Baldner intends to appeal, and we’ll see what the appellate division say,” defense attorney John Ingrassia said.
Monica’s mother, Michelle Surency, testified “a piece of my heart is missing,” calling Monica “a beacon of joy and laughter.”
“Today is justice. It was justice delayed, not denied, and we’re grateful the judge is actually sending him to jail time,” family spokesman Rev. Kevin McCall said.
