Ferguson (Missouri) Police Chief Troy Doyle is reporting that an officer who was critically injured when he was attacked during an August 2024 protesting is “making strong strides in his recovery.”

Officer Travis “TJ” Brown was attacked while trying to make an arrest during the protest.

The suspect Elijah Gantt is charged with assault of a special victim, resisting arrest and property damage.

Officer Brown was moved from a local hospital to a Georgia rehabilitation center in November.

Chief Doyle said on Facebook that he recently went to Atlanta to see his injured officer. “I spent five days at the Shepherd Center, visiting TJ every day… His determination and strength are inspiring to see and it’s a clear reminder of the kind of heart he’s always brought to serving this community.

“The staff at the Shepherd Center have been outstanding. It’s clear they take great pride in the care they provide. During my visit, I also met families of other injured officers, many of whom shared how surprised they were to hear that someone from TJ’s department had traveled all the way to check on him. Sadly, some said they hadn’t heard much from their own departments.”

The chief said he also met with Brown’s mother during his trip. “She asked me to pass along her heartfelt thanks to the Ferguson Police Department and the City of Ferguson for your continued love, support, and prayers. She told me that your encouragement has made a real difference for their family.”

The chief said he plans to visit Brown again in June.

He also said there is “hope that TJ may be able to continue his recovery closer to home in the near future.”