Webster Police chief weighs in on DA Doorley traffic stop

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Webster Police Chief Dennis Kohlmeier issued a statement Thursday thanking an officer for his “dedication to his duty” following a contentious traffic stop involving Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley.

As shown in officer-worn body camera video, Doorley did not stop and instead drove to her house and parked in her garage when police tried to pull her over for speeding on April 22. Footage of Doorley arguing with police , invoking her position as district attorney, and providing conflicting reasons for her failure to stop gained national attention when it was made public.

Doorley released a statement saying she called Webster Police Chief Dennis Kohlmeier from her car while driving home to tell him she was not a “threat,” but she also told police in the video that she did not know they were trying to pull her over at all. Later in the video she says she did not want to pull over on Phillips Road.

Footage from the body camera worn by Officer Cameron Crisafulli shows Doorley telling him to call Kohlmeier. She then makes a call on her phone, saying, “can you please tell him to leave me alone?”

She goes on to call Crisafulli an expletive multiple times.

In his statement Thursday, Kohlmeier commended Crisafulli on his handling of the situation.

“I am extremely proud of our police department for handling a dynamic event with such professionalism. Our body-worn camera policy is designed to provide transparency; in this situation, it confirms the integrity and character of our officers. I also want to publicly thank Officer Crisafulli for his dedication to his duty and the safety of our community.

Due to pending investigations, it is inappropriate to comment further.”

Webster Police Chief Dennis Kohlmeier

Doorley was ultimately issued a speeding ticket, which she said she pleaded guilty to. She issued a video apology Monday, saying she would discipline herself by attending ethics training.

“I’ve been humbled by my own stupidity and I am fully to blame,” Doorley said.

State lawmakers called for an investigation into the incident. Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick will review Doorley’s conduct in one such investigation. Governor Kathy Hochul referred the case to the New York State Commission on Prosecutorial Conduct , saying Doorley’s words and actions undermined her ability to effectively hold others accountable.

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