A tragic incident in Houston's Galleria area has reached a critical legal milestone as a 22-year-old man was sentenced to 60 years in prison for his role in a 2021 double murder. The announcement was made by Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, following Frederick D. Jackson's guilty plea to two counts of murder.

“This was a well-trained police officer from a major city who was just minding his own business and enjoying time off with friends on vacation,” Ogg stated. “It is an absolute tragedy, and it shows that anyone, anywhere can be the victim of a violent crime.”

Jackson, a resident of San Antonio, admitted to the fatal shootings of Everett Briscoe, a veteran officer of the New Orleans Police Department, and Briscoe’s friend, Dyrin Riculfy. The murders occurred during a robbery attempt on August 21, 2021, at the Grotto Ristorante's patio, located at 4715 Westheimer, around 5 p.m. on a Saturday.

According to investigators, Jackson and an accomplice approached the restaurant's patio, brandishing firearms and demanding money, which escalated into the fatal shooting of Briscoe and Riculfy. A third individual was waiting nearby in a vehicle.

The violent incident, taking place in broad daylight at an upscale restaurant, shocked the Houston community and garnered international media attention. The Houston Police Department conducted a thorough investigation leading to the arrests and charges.

Assistant District Attorney Keaton Forcht, chief of the Major Offenders Division, along with Cameron Calligan, chief of the Organized Crime Division, prosecuted the case. Jackson was scheduled to begin his trial later this week but agreed to the plea deal, ensuring he will spend a significant portion of his life behind bars.

“We wanted him to admit guilt for both murders and go to prison for the equivalent of a life sentence, and this accomplishes both of those goals,” Forcht explained. “It was important to the families of the victims that he take responsibility.”

Under the terms of the plea deal, Jackson cannot appeal his convictions or the prison sentence. He must serve at least 30 years before he is eligible for parole, mirroring the conditions of a life sentence. The court will also hear victim impact statements from the families of Briscoe and Riculfy next week.

Two other individuals, 24-year-old Anthony Rayshard Jenkins and 21-year-old Khalil Nelson, are still awaiting trial in connection with the shooting.

This case underscores the unpredictable nature of violent crime and the profound impact it can have on victims and their families. The successful prosecution and substantial sentence reflect the community's commitment to seeking justice and ensuring accountability for such heinous acts.

For more updates on this case and other important news, stay tuned to Houston Style Magazine.