BREAKING: 40 Years for Assault? Viral Tyler Arrest Case Raises Eyebrows

TYLER, Texas (TXAN 24) — A Tyler woman involved in a May arrest that went viral after TXAN 24 News posted the video was sentenced Monday to 40 years in prison for assaulting an officer—a punishment that many might see as extreme.

Brianna Erwin, 33, pleaded guilty Monday in the 7th District Court to multiple charges stemming from her May 11 arrest by the Tyler Police Department. Court records show she received 40 years for aggravated assault against a public servant.

The 40-year sentence has drawn attention because it is longer than what some individuals convicted of homicide or other violent crimes have received, raising questions about sentencing consistency in Smith County Texas.

Erwin’s arrest captured regional attention after TXAN 24 News shared video of the incident showing a struggle between her and the officer, sparking widespread discussion online.