The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office issued charges Wednesday against a Florissant man for fleeing a traffic stop and leaving an accident, marking the first time such charges have been filed under Valentine’s Law.

Valentine’s Law is a newly enacted statute named in honor of detective Antonio Valentine. Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed the law in July, and it officially went into effect on Aug. 28. The law increases penalties for certain vehicular crimes and ensures harsher punishments for offenders in incidents similar to the one that claimed Valentine’s life nearly three years ago.

Valentine, a 15-year veteran of the department, died in December 2021 during a vehicle collision while on duty with the department’s Drug Enforcement Bureau. Valentine, a military veteran, is remembered for his dedication to law enforcement and his community. The father of four was active in his local community, coaching youth football for the Mehlville School District’s junior Panther football team.

The charges Wednesday are the first time St. Louis County Police have filed charges under Valentine’s Law.

According to police, an officer observed 28-year-old Andrew Laramie in a red Dodge pickup truck using a parking lot as an illegal shortcut while speeding. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Laramie fled, reaching speeds over 100 mph in a 35 mph zone. Laramie then swerved into oncoming traffic to evade the stop.

Police said after a brief chase, officers found a victim’s vehicle with severe damage and Laramie’s truck in a nearby ditch. Laramie was apprehended after attempting to flee on foot. He reportedly told officers that a passenger in his truck had told him to flee and asked if anyone in the car he hit was hurt.

The investigation is being handled by the St. Louis County Police Department’s North County Precinct.