Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley was caught speeding in Webster, New York, driving 55 mph in a 35 mph zone. Instead of stopping for the officer who tried to pull her over, Doorley drove back to her house and called the police chief to complain. She eventually accepted a ticket and pleaded guilty in municipal court to take responsibility for her actions, stating she did not want any special treatment due to her position.
Bodycam footage released by the Webster Police Department showed a tense exchange between Doorley and the officer in her driveway. She refused to step outside her garage, dismissively handed the phone to the officer to speak with the chief, and called the officer an expletive. When questioned about her speeding, Doorley said she “didn’t feel like stopping” and expressed frustration at the officer trying to conduct a traffic stop. She eventually apologized and acknowledged the officer’s job but still maintained her position as the District Attorney.
The footage revealed Doorley arguing with the officer about not stopping and the consequences of her actions. She mentioned she had been dealing with murders in the city and had a bad day, but the officer reminded her that refusing to stop was an arrestable offense. Despite her apology, Doorley insisted on just receiving the ticket and appeared to question the officer’s authority. She emphasized that nobody, including herself, is above the law and reiterated her dedication to public safety in her community throughout her 33-year career.
Doorley’s behavior during the incident raised questions about her attitude towards law enforcement and her understanding of following traffic laws as a public official. Despite her apology and acceptance of the ticket, her interactions with the officer were confrontational and dismissive. The release of the bodycam footage shed light on the incident, showcasing Doorley’s initial refusal to comply with the officer’s instructions and her attempt to leverage her position as the District Attorney to avoid repercussions for her speeding.
The incident highlighted the importance of accountability for public officials and their obligation to follow the same laws they enforce. Doorley’s actions raised concerns about how she viewed law enforcement and her entitlement in the situation despite being caught breaking the law. While she ultimately accepted responsibility for her actions, the encounter with the officer showed a lack of respect and cooperation, emphasizing the need for all individuals, regardless of their position, to adhere to the rule of law and treat law enforcement officers with respect.
In closing, while Doorley admitted her mistake and accepted the consequences, the incident exemplified the tension between law enforcement and public officials. Her behavior during the encounter raised questions about accountability and respect for the law, as well as how individuals in positions of power should handle such situations. The release of the bodycam footage allowed the public to witness the exchange and draw their own conclusions about the incident involving the Monroe County District Attorney.
