This case was shocking and amusing to read as it's one of the few cases in America that I've seen. The Associated Press reported that Attorney Eric Bryrant was sitting at a restaurant March 7 in Portland, Oregon when Police Officer Chad Stensgaard parked his patrol car next to a "no parking" sign. The officer then exited his car and walked inside the restaurant to wait on his food.
The attorney filed a citizen's complaint against the officer for several violations, inclucing illegal parking and illegal parking of an emergency vehicle. The officer was issued, get this, a summons to appear in traffic court this coming May! His fines could total $450.00.
As you can imagine, the police department is very upset. Police spokeswoman Cathy Kent stated, " the officer will fight the complaint in court ".
Mr. Bryant countered, "citizens should be concerned that he used his status as an officer of the law as justification for breaking the law".
My take:
Mr. Bryant's concern, as is my concern, is that "little" liberties like these may lead up to "bigger" liberties. I personally applaud Mr.Bryant for having the courage to confront this violation. You or I cannot do this. The law is written for everyone, without exception. If contained in this law was an exception, excluding police vehicles, then I wouldn't have a problem. But the sign did say "no parking".
Now having said that, the judge probably won't uphold the complaint. Remember, not all, but many judges, district attorneys, and police officers "break bread" with each other almost daily. The judge probably has already received a call or visit from police supervisors or the district attorney scheduled to handle the case, informing him of the situation. I will definitely keep up with this story and let you all know it's final determination. Lets dream a little. Imagine if the judge does uphold the complaint!
All I can say is, what's good for the goose.......
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