Photo: Ilya Burdun / iStock / Getty Images
Austin Breyette is set to be sentenced today (Tuesday, January 20) in Albany after being convicted of assaulting University at Albany student Alexa Kropf with a dirt bike in April 2024. Breyette was found guilty on four charges, including assault in the second degree, leaving the scene without reporting, and tampering with physical evidence related to both the dirt bike and a getaway car.
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence that Breyette attempted to cover up the incident. They highlighted his actions of deleting social media accounts, clearing Google searches, and researching how to detect phone tapping. Breyette admitted the incident was a "tragic accident" and claimed he panicked and fled the scene.
The assault left Kropf, then 19 years old, in a coma for over a week, requiring multiple surgeries. Her father, Jim Kropf, has been advocating for her throughout the trial. The case led to the passing of the Stunt Law, which increases fines for dangerous driving, with first-time offenders facing fines up to $500 and repeat offenders up to $1,500 or jail time.
The jury, consisting of eight women and four men, reached a guilty verdict after a seven-day trial and three hours of deliberation. The prosecution's case included testimony from 28 witnesses and surveillance footage showing Breyette speeding through Albany's Pine Hills neighborhood. After the incident, Breyette was tracked by police as he disposed of the dirt bike and other evidence.
Albany County District Attorney Lee C. Kindlon praised the efforts of the prosecuting attorneys and commended Alexa Kropf for her resilience. Breyette, who has been in custody since the verdict, faces up to 19 years in prison.