Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley was caught speeding at 55 mph in a 35 mph zone near her neighborhood in upstate New York. Instead of stopping for the police officer who tried to pull her over, Doorley drove back to her house and called the Webster Police Chief to complain about the officer. She refused to step outside of her garage and speak with the officers, dismissively handing the phone to the chief and telling the officer to “just go away.” Bodycam footage released later showed a tense exchange between Doorley and the officer, in which she appeared to be using her position to avoid receiving a ticket.
Despite initially refusing to stop for the officer, Doorley eventually accepted the ticket issued to her and pleaded guilty in municipal court the following day. She stated that she believed in accepting responsibility for her actions and did not intend to use her position for any special treatment. However, the bodycam footage showed Doorley being disrespectful towards the officer, claiming she knew the law better than him and referring to him as an “a–hole.” The exchange revealed her frustration with being pulled over for speeding.
During the altercation, Doorley explained that she did not feel like stopping on the road at 5:30 pm, which prompted the officer to remind her that it was not her choice. The officer questioned Doorley’s attitude towards law enforcement, asking her if they should not do their jobs because she was involved. Doorley ultimately told the officer to write her the ticket, but he pointed out that refusing to stop was an arrestable offense.
In a statement released after the footage was made public, Doorley acknowledged that nobody, including herself, is above the rule of law, even when it comes to traffic laws. She defended her dedication to the safety of the community throughout her career and expressed her commitment to public safety in Monroe County. Doorley apologized for her behavior during the incident, citing a stressful day of dealing with murders in the city as a contributing factor.
The incident involving Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley not stopping for the police when caught speeding raised questions about the proper conduct for public officials. Doorley’s actions and behavior during the altercation with the officer sparked controversy and criticism. Despite her eventual acceptance of the traffic ticket and guilty plea, the bodycam footage shed light on the tense exchange between Doorley and law enforcement.
Doorley’s refusal to comply with the officer’s attempt to pull her over and her dismissive behavior towards law enforcement personnel undermined the respect for the rule of law. The incident highlighted the importance of public officials setting an example for following traffic laws and cooperating with law enforcement. As District Attorney, Doorley’s behavior during the incident brought scrutiny and scrutiny her commitment to public safety and respect for the law. The release of the bodycam footage added to the public’s perception of the events and raised questions about the accountability of those in positions of authority.