U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg | U.S. Department of Justice
Jacksonville, Florida – Jeffrey A. Sager, 55, has pleaded guilty to the charge of assaulting a Veterans Affairs (VA) police officer. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg. Sager could face up to eight years in federal prison, although a sentencing date has not yet been set.
Court documents reveal that on February 13, 2024, Sager entered the Lake City VA Medical Center in Lake City, Florida. He locked himself inside a triage room and began verbally attacking a nurse present with him. The nurse triggered a silent panic alarm which prompted VA police officers to respond. Despite repeated orders from the officers to open the door, Sager refused to comply.
Once officers managed to enter the triage room, Sager fled down the hallway of the medical center. An officer caught up with him, leading to a struggle during which both fell to the floor. In an attempt to escape, Sager kicked the officer in her shoulder, resulting in dislocation and fracture injuries. Additional officers arrived at the scene and detained Sager.
The case was investigated by both the Lake City VA police and Osceola National Forest Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.
