Staff Reports
In an incident that sounds like it came straight out of a wild TV drama, a special assistant attorney general in Rhode Island found herself in hot water—and handcuffs—after a bit too much fun at a Newport restaurant. Devon Hogan Flanagan, who was just trying to enjoy an evening out with friends, ended up in an awkward and contentious standoff with the police. When asked to leave, she wanted everyone to know she meant business by asserting her high-ranking position as an attorney general. As you might expect, that didn’t go over very well.
Flanagan’s evening of drinks took a turn when the Newport police were called for assistance after she and her friend had been asked to leave multiple times. Picture this: a stylishly dressed Flanagan, perhaps with a few cocktails enhancing her confidence, was uncooperative with the officers, repeatedly insisting on her title. It was as if she thought dropping “AG” like a magical incantation would grant her a free pass. Unfortunately for her, the police weren’t impressed by the certification of her legal prowess. Instead of rolling out the red carpet, they rolled her right into the back of a police car.
As news of the incident spread, it raised eyebrows across Rhode Island. Flanagan’s boss, the state attorney general, voiced embarrassment over her actions, revealing just how poorly the situation reflected on their office. He even suggested she may have put him in a difficult spot. Treating police officers with disdain while heavily emphasizing one’s title isn’t exactly the best way to win friends in law enforcement or the public eye.
It’s not every day a member of the legal community finds themselves on the wrong side of the law, especially one who should know the ins and outs of proper conduct. Many felt this was an opportunity for her to demonstrate that public officials have to abide by the same rules as everyone else. The old saying “flaunt it if you got it” clearly doesn’t apply when you’re talking about legal authority in relation to the law. Although she may continue to serve in her role for now, some think she should face consequences for her actions. Who wouldn’t want to see a little accountability?
While Flanagan’s case might feel like a comedy of errors now, it serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, not even an AG in Rhode Island with a couple of drinks in her system. And though she may be getting attention for all the wrong reasons, there’s no telling what path her political career might take from here. Will she emerge as a spokesperson for appropriate behavior among officials or as a cautionary tale? Only time will tell, but this incident could very well be the gossip at the water cooler for months to come.
