Big Sky Times

HELENA – In response to the guilty verdict in the trial of Jason Allen Miller, who ran over Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson in February 2023, Attorney General Austin Knudsen issued a statement reiterating the state's stance on violence against law enforcement officers. Knudsen stated, “We will not tolerate violence against law enforcement officers in Montana. Justice has been served, and the perpetrator will be held to account for his heinous actions last year.”

Trooper Johnson, an officer with the Highway Patrol for eight years, was injured in the line of duty on February 16, 2023, during the apprehension of Miller. The incident resulted in Trooper Johnson being run over by Miller and sustaining serious injuries.

Following the trial, Miller was found guilty on multiple counts, which include attempted deliberate homicide, criminal endangerment, criminal mischief, criminal possession of dangerous drugs, aggravated kidnapping, and a sentencing enhancement for the use of a weapon. As a result, he has been classified as a persistent felony offender and now faces the possibility of 510 years in prison.

The Attorney General's statement reflects the gravity of the situation and the commitment of Montana to hold individuals accountable for acts of violence against law enforcement officers.