By Police1 Staff
BOONE COUNTY, Ind. — The man charged with fatally shooting an Indiana deputy said he has “no remorse” for killing the LEO.
While being walked to a courthouse Wednesday, 21-year-old Anthony Baumgardt said he was not sorry for killing Deputy Jacob Pickett, WXIN reports. When asked why he shot Pickett, Baumgardt said he “didn’t want to get bit” by Pickett’s K-9 partner Brik.
On March 2, police were pursuing Baumgardt and two others when Baumgardt shot Pickett in the head, mortally wounding him. Pickett was put on life support for donation of his organs and passed away this week.
Boone County Sheriff Mike Nielsen said it “hurt deep inside” when Baumgardt said he has no remorse for killing Pickett.
“But we move on,” Nielsen later said. “I will not step down to his level. I did not cry in there because he will not get to me. But what I will tell you is I will be at every hearing and every trial, and so will his K9 partner Brik.”
Prosecutor Todd Meyer said he’s leaning towards seeking the death penalty against Baumgardt. The suspect’s father, Robert Baumgardt Jr., said he was “speechless” after learning what his son said and that his family wants justice just as much as the public.
“Let’s give respect to the hero and the officers in blue, not giving Anthony the spotlight. Please let everyone know we want justice as much as they do. Swift justice. My prayers for the family, Brik and the brothers in blue continue,” Robert said.
Anthony faces murder, drug and gun charges.