NEWPORT, R.I. — Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Hogan Flanagan was arrested Thursday evening outside Clarke Cooke House restaurant for alleged trespassing, in an incident that escalated after she demanded Newport police officers turn off their body-worn cameras.
Police responded to a call about an “unwanted party” and found Flanagan with her friend Veronica Hannan outside the establishment, according to the Newport Police Department and footage released by the department.
In the chaotic bodycam video, Flanagan repeatedly urged officers to shut off their cameras, claiming it was protocol and a citizen’s right. Officers explained that the women were being asked to leave after a restaurant employee requested their removal.
Despite repeated warnings, Flanagan resisted and attempted to intimidate officers by citing her job title. “I’m an AG. I’m an AG,” she said, to which one officer replied, “Good for you. I don’t give a (expletive). Let’s go.”
Flanagan warned, “You’re going to regret it,” as she was placed in the back of a police cruiser. The officer closed the door before she could finish.
Timothy Rondeau, spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office, clarified that Flanagan’s request to turn off cameras is not state policy and applies only to victims and witnesses, not suspects or others being detained. The Newport Police Department’s policy states officers may consider objections but are not required to stop recording.
The Attorney General’s Office has launched an immediate review of the incident. According to police reports, Flanagan was uncooperative and questioned officers’ authority throughout the encounter.
This incident has sparked discussions about the appropriate use of body-worn cameras and the limits of police authority, even when dealing with state officials.
