Staff Reports
On Sunday, Governor Kathy Hochul (D-NY) made the decision to refer Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley to the New York State Commission on Prosecutorial Conduct. This decision was prompted by the emergence of bodycam footage that revealed Doorley’s actions and statements during a traffic stop in Webster, New York, last week. Hochul criticized Doorley for her behavior during the traffic stop, calling it unacceptable and accusing her of attempting to use her public office to evade responsibility.
The bodycam footage shows Doorley claiming she is above the law and attempting to use her position to avoid consequences for speeding. She also used vulgar language and showed a lack of respect for the law enforcement officer’s authority. In response to Doorley’s behavior, Rochester’s City Council wrote a letter to New York State Attorney General Letitia James requesting an investigation into Doorley’s conduct.
UPDATE: All member of the #ROC City Council have called on @NewYorkStateAG’s office to investigate Monroe County DA Sandra Doorley’s behavior during a traffic stop in Webster. Statement below ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/Ku0oDBclqG
— Jennifer Lewke (@WHEC_JLewke) April 27, 2024
District Attorneys are responsible for prosecuting criminal and traffic offenses and must perform their duties with the highest ethical standards, according to Hochul. She stated that Doorley’s actions during the traffic stop undermined her ability to hold others accountable for violating the law, and breached her responsibility as a District Attorney. Hochul expressed gratitude to law enforcement officers for their efforts to protect the safety of New Yorkers.
In a statement released on Thursday, Doorley took responsibility for her actions during the traffic stop and announced that she pleaded guilty to speeding. However, her behavior during the incident has raised concerns about her adherence to ethical standards and respect for the law.
The incident involving Doorley has sparked significant criticism and calls for investigation into her conduct. This situation underscores the importance of holding public officials to the highest standards of ethics, accountability, and respect for the law.
