Baldner Convicted of Manslaughter in Goods Family Tragedy

New York – The grim tale of former New York State Police Trooper Christopher Baldner’s (47, Catskill) conviction for Manslaughter in the Second Degree echoes a harrowing night on the NYS Thruway. In December 2020, Baldner’s police vehicle became an instrument of horror when he rammed into the Goods family car, resulting in the tragic death of 11-year-old Monica Goods.

The Ulster County Court jury found Baldner guilty after a previous mistrial in November 2025. The crime carries a sentence of five to 15 years. Judge Bryan Rounds set bail at $100,000, with sentencing scheduled for June 2, 2026.

Attorney General Letitia James offered her condolences to Monica’s family, stating, “While nothing can bring Monica back, this verdict is some semblance of justice.”

The incident began on the night of December 22, 2020. Tristin Goods was driving with his wife and two daughters when Trooper Baldner stopped them for speeding. The stop turned into a pursuit after Mr. Goods drove away from the pepper spray-deploying trooper. Following the collision that killed Monica, an investigation led by the Office of Special Investigation (OSI) uncovered a trail of evidence against Baldner.

Pursuant to New York Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI conducts thorough investigations into officer-involved deaths. The OSI’s role in this case was crucial, with Investigative Counsel Joelle Morabito-Cruz and Assistant Attorney General Jennifer Gashi leading the prosecution. Detectives Ronald Enfield and Steven Russell, along with OSI detectives Magdalene Fawaz, Donovan Sterling-Jones, and Santiago Molina, contributed to a successful conclusion.

This case has brought significant scrutiny to police conduct and the OSI’s efforts in ensuring justice for victims of such tragic incidents. The OSI is part of the Division for Criminal Justice under Chief Deputy Attorney General José Maldonado and First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.”