“I’m an AG!” – a phrase now echoing across news outlets following the arrest of Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Hogan Flanagan. The incident, which unfolded outside the Clarke Cooke House restaurant in Newport, Rhode Island, on August 14, has sparked an internal review and raised questions about conduct and authority. Flanagan’s arrest for willful trespass and related charges has drawn attention to the complexities of law enforcement interactions and the responsibilities of legal professionals.
The Newport Incident
The arrest occurred after Flanagan and a companion, Veronica Hannan, allegedly refused to leave the Clarke Cooke House property despite repeated requests. According to reports from multiple sources, including Fox News and the New York Post, restaurant staff asked the women to leave 13 times before involving the Newport Police Department. The ensuing interaction, captured on body camera footage, reveals a contentious exchange between Flanagan and the arresting officers.
Body Camera Footage
The body camera footage, as reported by WCVB and ABC News, is central to understanding the incident. It allegedly shows Flanagan challenging the officers, demanding the body cameras be turned off, and repeatedly declaring, “I’m an AG!” Furthermore, Flanagan warned the officers, “You’re going to regret this,” as she was being handcuffed and placed in the police cruiser. The Newport Police Department did not comply with her request to deactivate the body cameras, citing her status as a suspect in the ongoing investigation.
Arrest and Charges
As detailed by Legal Insurrection, Flanagan faces charges related to entering a property without permission, causing a public disturbance, and resisting arrest. Her companion, Veronica Hannan, was also arrested and charged with willful trespass, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. Hannan was reportedly seen briefly slipping out of her handcuffs and kicking the police vehicle door. These details have been widely disseminated across various news platforms, including NBC News and Boston 25 News.
“I’m an AG!”: Authority Questioned
Flanagan’s repeated declaration, “I’m an AG!”, raises questions about the perceived influence and authority associated with her position as a Special Assistant Attorney General. The incident prompts a discussion on whether her actions constituted an attempt to leverage her professional standing to circumvent the standard procedures of law enforcement. The Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, aware of the gravity of these concerns, has initiated an internal review of the matter.
Internal Review
The Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office has acknowledged the incident and confirmed the launch of an internal review. As reported by People.com, the office stated that they are unable to comment further due to the ongoing nature of personnel matters. This internal review will likely assess Flanagan’s conduct in relation to professional ethics and standards expected of attorneys within the Attorney General’s Office.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
The incident involving Devon Hogan Flanagan has garnered significant media attention, with reports appearing on Ground News, Fox News, New York Post, WCVB, ABC News, Legal Insurrection, NBC News, Boston 25 News, Police1, and People.com. The widespread coverage underscores the public interest in matters involving law enforcement and legal professionals, particularly when questions of potential misconduct arise. The availability of body camera footage has also contributed to the transparency and scrutiny surrounding the event.
Perspectives and Analysis
Different news outlets have presented varying perspectives on the incident. Some have focused on the details of the arrest and the specific charges against Flanagan and Hannan. Others have emphasized the implications of Flanagan’s “I’m an AG!” declaration and the potential abuse of authority. Police1, a resource for law enforcement professionals, may offer insights into the officers’ perspective and the challenges they faced during the arrest.
Conclusion
The arrest of Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Hogan Flanagan and her subsequent “I’m an AG!” declaration have ignited a public discourse on professional conduct and the appropriate use of authority. As the internal review progresses and legal proceedings unfold, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and adherence to the law, regardless of one’s position. The body camera footage and extensive media coverage ensure continued scrutiny of the events and their broader implications for the legal profession.
