VERO BEACH, Fla. — A former Grand Junction neurosurgeon wanted on sexual assault charges in Colorado is now facing federal attempted murder charges after authorities say he opened fire on members of a U.S. Marshals fugitive task force during an arrest attempt in Florida.
Thomas Earl Steffens, 72, was arrested March 2 in Vero Beach, Florida, after an exchange of gunfire with deputy U.S. marshals, according to the U.S. Marshals Service and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida.
Authorities allege Steffens drugged a woman with prescription medication and then sexually assaulted her on Jan. 28 in Grand Junction, according to the news release.
Crime
U.S. Marshals arrest wanted Colorado neurosurgeon after Florida gunfight
After an investigation by the Grand Junction Police Department, a warrant was issued for Steffens’s arrest on Feb. 25. The U.S. Marshals Service in Grand Junction then learned he was traveling to Florida’s Treasure Coast.
In March, investigators in Florida located Steffens, who was riding in a vehicle, and conducted a traffic stop, during which Steffens allegedly shot at officers after refusing multiple commands to exit the vehicle, according to the U.S. Marshals Office.
One deputy U.S. Marshal was shot in the leg but was treated and released the following day. Steffens was shot multiple times and was hospitalized.
According to the release, Steffens is now being charged with five counts of attempted murder of a federal officer, five counts of aggravated assault of a federal officer and one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.
If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison.
The case is being investigated by FBI Miami, with assistance from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.
Denver7's Robert Garrison contributed to this report
Denver7 is committed to making a difference in our community by standing up for what's right, listening, lending a helping hand and following through on promises. See that work in action, in the videos above.