Bodycam footage released by the Newport Police Department highlights a tense encounter involving Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan. The video captures Flanagan pleading with police officers to avoid her arrest, repeatedly asserting her position, “I’m an AG! I’m an AG!” as officers attempted to detain her for not following their instructions. Her insistence continued even as she was being escorted to a police car, where she warned, “You’re going to regret this.”
The situation escalated as Flanagan advised officers on proper procedure, requesting them to turn off their body cameras, asserting, “Protocol is that you turn it off.” A companion of Flanagan, who could be seen shouting at the officers, added, “She’s a f—ing lawyer,” reinforcing Flanagan’s attempts to leverage her legal background to influence the officers.
Megan Skinner, a spokesperson for the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, confirmed that they are reviewing Flanagan’s arrest for willful trespass, which occurred on the evening of August 14. While no immediate disciplinary actions have been disclosed, the spokesperson indicated that they expect their review to conclude in a few days. The Attorney General’s Office has kept details sparse, mentioning they cannot comment on personnel issues related to the incident.
In addition to Flanagan, a woman named Veronica Hannan, who was seen during the footage engaging with officers, was also arrested. She faces multiple charges, including willful trespass and resisting arrest. The incident raises questions about authority and accountability, especially considering Flanagan’s role within the Attorney General’s Office, where she has served for seven years, primarily handling appeals in criminal court.
This arrest illustrates a significant clash between law enforcement and a member of the legal profession, drawing attention to the challenges of maintaining order in confrontational situations. The outcome of the Attorney General’s review may further illuminate the complexities of authority and legal conduct in such scenarios.
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