Guest column by Sandra Doorley: ‘I made a colossal mistake’

The measure of person isn’t whether you make a mistake –- it’s whether you admit it and commit to do better.

Last week, I made a mistake . A big one.

You already know about my viral video where I disrespected a police officer who was ticketing me for speeding . All officers — including this one — deserve respect. I didn’t give it. That’s why I apologized to him .

No one is above the law, which is why I immediately pled guilty, asked for a prosecutor from another county to review the matter, and will refer myself to the Attorney Grievance Committee. I’ll fully cooperate.

This is no excuse, but it’s undeniable that I had just left a day where I was dealing with three murder cases – including watching a video of a cab driver being murdered . And I’d just learned of a frightening medical issue that my husband was informed about earlier that afternoon.

But even a day that bad can’t excuse what I did. Elected officials have a higher standard . That’s why I’m holding myself accountable through my actions.

Some wonder why I didn’t just pull over. There’s no good answer. My mind was reeling with the upsetting events of the day, and I displayed extremely poor judgment.

Others have asked why I called the police chief. As District Attorney , I talk to police chiefs all the time. I wanted to tell him I was not a threat, and I’d talk to his officer in my driveway rather than on the roadway. But it was stupid. I wish I hadn’t done it.

I know there are some who want me to resign. But the people elected me and I have work to do. People don’t expect their leaders to be perfect, but they do expect us to be accountable.

I was appreciative that the Rochester Police Locust Club issued a statement of support, not for my actions, but for my work and history of supporting law enforcement. I also thank the other community leaders who accepted my apology and encouraged me to continue leading. Most touching was the support of Lynn Mazurkiewicz , wife of fallen Rochester Police Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz. Her statement was a public display of grace.

I will hold myself accountable while still leading this office.

I made a colossal mistake, but I will make this right. And I humbly ask for forgiveness.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Guest column by Sandra Doorley: ‘I made a colossal mistake’