New Hampshire state Rep. Ellen Read, a Democrat, is fighting two speeding charges stemming from traffic stops in Rockingham County, including one where she was allegedly driving 107 mph. Read argues the stops violated a provision of the New Hampshire Constitution that protects lawmakers while traveling to or from legislative duties. The lack of body camera or dashboard camera footage from the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office has become a focal point in the legal battle.
Core Facts & Developments
The Rockingham County Sheriff's Office confirmed it does not use body-worn cameras or dashboard cameras due to funding limitations. Major Christopher Bashaw stated the agency would like to equip deputies with the technology but lacks the necessary resources. New Hampshire established a Body-Worn and Dashboard Camera Fund in 2021 to help local law enforcement agencies purchase cameras, but participation is voluntary.
Legal and Policy Context
Read's defense hinges on Article 4, Part 2 of the New Hampshire Constitution, which grants lawmakers immunity from arrest while traveling to or from legislative sessions. The absence of body camera footage complicates the case, as there is no official recording of the traffic stop. State law requires agencies using body cameras to adopt policies governing their use but does not mandate their adoption.
Broader Implications
The case highlights ongoing debates over police transparency and the use of body cameras. While some law enforcement agencies have adopted the technology, others, like the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office, cite funding constraints. The outcome of Read's case could influence future interpretations of legislative immunity and the role of body cameras in traffic stops.