Body camera footage from the night a Rhode Island assistant attorney general was taken into custody for trespassing in Newport last week has been made public by the police.
Following complaints of patrons refusing to leave, officers were dispatched to 24 Bannister’s Wharf late Thursday.
The R.I. Attorney General’s Office reports that Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan was taken into custody. She was charged with willful trespass and received a court summons.
I want you to turn off your bodycam, Flanagan said, pointing to one of the officers as they drew closer. According to protocol, you should switch it off upon a citizen’s request.
She practices law. Another woman remarked that she is a lawyer.
In an effort to defuse the situation, an officer said to the couple: “So they want you guys to leave?” Let’s simply go. Let’s keep things simple, shall we?
However, Flanagan contended that she had the right to request that body cameras be turned off in accordance with police regulation.
Officers were informed by restaurant employees that they wanted the women taken out.
Do you all want them to leave? A policeman inquired. Are you okay with them trespassing?
One of the staff members said, “Anything we can do.” Intruder? Yes. I simply must get them out. Please.
Flanagan and the other woman were then cautioned by the police that they were trespassing and that if they didn’t leave, they might be arrested.
We’re not intruding. Flanagan countered, “You haven’t told us that we’re trespassing.”
Just what did I say to you? The police said, “You’re trespassing, and I don’t want to arrest you guys.”
Flanagan frequently identified herself as an attorney general and stated, “You’re not going to arrest us.”
She went on, “I’m an AG,” as shackles were removed. I work as an AG. What probable grounds do you have for holding me?
She then told officers, “You’re going to regret this,” as she was put in the back of a cruiser. You will come to regret it.
The other female was also taken into custody.
Citing personnel concerns, the R.I. Attorney General’s Office told 12 News it is looking into the case but would not speak further.
