In August 2025, an incident involving a law enforcement pursuit ended in a fatal crash on Interstate 95 in Prince William County, Virginia. According to published reporting, Sgt. Hurt was involved in the pursuit, which resulted in the death of Josue Enoc Martinez of Spotsylvania County.
In August 2026, Sgt. Hurt was indicted on a felony charge of involuntary manslaughter and a misdemeanor charge of reckless driving in connection with the incident. These charges are allegations, not findings of guilt. Sgt. Hurt is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The incident has placed Sgt. Hurt and his family in an incredibly difficult position as they navigate the legal and personal consequences of a criminal prosecution arising from his law enforcement duties.
Law enforcement officers are entrusted with protecting their communities, enforcing the law, and responding to dangerous and unpredictable situations. Those responsibilities can involve difficult decisions with serious consequences.
Stafford County deputies are authorized to perform Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) maneuvers, and Sgt. Hurt was trained and certified in the procedure. However, the circumstances of the vehicle contact alleged in this case, whether a PIT maneuver was performed, and the legal significance of any actions taken are matters that must be established through evidence and the judicial process.
An officer facing criminal charges deserves the same presumption of innocence, due process, and fair examination of the evidence afforded to every American.
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office publicly expressed its support for Sgt. Hurt following the announcement of the charges. According to published reporting, he was placed on administrative assignment while the investigation and legal proceedings continued.
The consequences of this prosecution could be profound for Sgt. Hurt, his career, and his family. Defending a criminal case involving a law enforcement pursuit can require significant legal resources, careful examination of investigative findings, and a comprehensive review of the evidence surrounding the incident.
The defense must have a full opportunity to examine the circumstances, challenge disputed allegations, and present relevant testimony and evidence in court.
As NCPD Vice President Bert Eyler emphasized in the organization’s September 2026 statement: “When an officer faces criminal prosecution for actions arising from the performance of his duties, the entire case deserves a careful and fair examination.” NCPD believes Sgt. Hurt should be judged on the facts presented in court—not assumptions, public speculation, or incomplete accounts of what occurred.
Sgt. Hurt and his legal team have elected not to debate evidentiary matters publicly while the criminal case proceeds. Instead, they are relying on the judicial process to provide an appropriate opportunity for the facts to be examined. The courtroom— not public opinion— must be where the evidence is tested and the case is decided.
The National Center for Police Defense is supporting Sgt. Jeremy Hurt and his family as he navigates this difficult legal battle. NCPD is dedicated to standing with law enforcement officers facing prosecution and serious legal challenges arising from their official duties. The organization advocates for due process, fairness, and the opportunity for officers to defend themselves against criminal allegations. Sgt. Hurt’s case underscores the importance of ensuring that officers who face prosecution have the opportunity to present a complete and meaningful defense. Criminal charges are not convictions. Every defendant deserves a fair process, and every case must be evaluated on its own evidence.
NCPD will continue to follow Sgt. Hurt’s case as the legal proceedings move forward and provide updates as verified information becomes available.
Sgt. Hurt and his family are facing an extraordinarily difficult chapter in their lives. No officer should have to face the burden of navigating a complex criminal prosecution without the opportunity for a fair and thorough defense. Please consider supporting the National Center for Police Defense as we stand with Sgt. Jeremy Hurt and other officers facing legal challenges arising from their service. Your generosity helps NCPD continue its mission of supporting law enforcement officers and their families during some of their most challenging moments.
Stand with Sgt. Jeremy Hurt. Stand for due process. Stand with those who serve.
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