And now some good news…
Fred reports that his Ormond Beach citations have been dismissed (no trial).
He is still trying to set up a meeting with the OBPD to ensure they will leave him alone.
Now, if we could only seek restitution for the time lost and emotional damages suffered by being harassed while not breaking any laws, that would be a deterrent. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, especially if you’re a police officer!
Fantastic news indeed!
“Now, if we could only seek restitution”
There is a tort called “Abuse of Process”, but it has to be proven that some sort of maliciousness was involved.
Still, after receiving a letter, a picture of the “culprit”, and a copy of all the dismissals, an argument could be made that if the Chief didn’t notify his lieutenants to pass the word to leave Fred alone, then that could be an indication of maliciousness, not just ordinary negligence. Could be handled in small claims court.
if i were Fred, i’d be satisfied with the right to yell some variation of “EAT THAT CROW!” to any of the officers that stopped me unlawfully, should i see them on the road. yes, that would be restitution enough for me.
After getting four citations dismissed in Port Orange, riding in that city became far less unpleasant. My route home took me past the POPD and for a few weeks, I was shouting “Thank you” as I passed the station.
Those weren’t the exact words I used, but considering the distance between the road and the station, that’s how I’d interpret the sound emanating from my bike!
had the last 4 letters in common, at least 😉
That is very good news indeed! Get that judge to educate the others and send him/her our way!
Glad to hear it, Fred. Hope the word reaches the officers on the street.