State Representative Ellen Read, 46, was allegedly caught driving at 107mph in a 65mph zone in December 2024, and she claims that legislative privilege exempts her from speed limits. According to court documents, Read argues that she cannot be arrested while traveling to or from the legislature, and she has moved to have the charges dismissed.
Two Speeding Incidents and a Court Battle
In addition to the December 2024 incident, Read is also accused of driving at 92mph in a separate incident in June 2024. She was convicted of negligent driving after the first traffic stop and fined $1,240, according to the Boston Globe. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for August, and a charge related to the second stop was rescheduled after the judge recused himself in April.
Attorney Compares Read to a First Responder
Read's attorney, former state lawmaker Daniel Hynes, argued that legislative privilege means evidence from the first stop was illegally obtained. The motion to dismiss was denied, and Read was found guilty of the non-criminal charge. Hynes has likened Read to a first responder, suggesting her speed limit breach is justified, though no explanation for the high speeds was provided.
Officer Testifies About Read's Behavior
Major Christopher Bashaw of the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office stated that during the second traffic stop, Read allegedly shouted at a deputy and claimed the officer had no understanding of the law. The interaction lasted 10 minutes. Bashaw commented, "I don't think anyone in the general public believes that just because a state representative is traveling to or from session that they are immune to committing any violation or crime. That would be absurd to think that somebody could cause an accident and kill somebody and not be held accountable."
Upcoming Hearings and Potential Sentencing
Read's August hearing concerns a deferred portion of her sentence, and she could face tougher penalties. The case has drawn attention to the limits of legislative privilege, with critics arguing that it should not exempt lawmakers from traffic laws.
