Arizona State Senator Justine Wadsack, a Republican from the Tucson area, is claiming "political persecution" over a criminal speeding ticket she received in March, according to the Tucson Sentinel.
On the evening of March 15, Tucson police officer Ryder Schrage clocked Wadsack driving her Tesla Model S at 71 mph in a 35 mph zone on Speedway Boulevard. When pulled over, Wadsack identified herself as a senator and told the officer she was "racing home" because her car's battery was low. The officer did not issue a citation at the time due to Wadsack's claim of legislative immunity, which protects lawmakers from arrest or legal action while the legislature is in session.
This immunity is intended to prevent authorities from interfering with a lawmaker's ability to vote and participate in debates. However, charges can be filed once the legislative session ends.
After the session adjourned on June 15, police attempted to have Wadsack sign the criminal speeding citation, but she refused and accused the department of "political persecution."
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph in Arizona is a class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail, probation, a fine and points on the driver's license.
Wadsack's claim of "racing home" because of a low battery does not hold up, according to a former Tesla engineer, who stated that speeding is inefficient and drains the battery faster due to increased wind resistance.
Tucson city officials have pushed back on Wadsack's "political persecution" claim, stating that prosecution for dangerous driving is not persecution. The police department has prioritized addressing traffic safety and dangerous driving behavior regardless of the driver's status.
The Tucson Police Department has filed a summons in Tucson City Court for the criminal speeding citation against Wadsack, and she is expected to be served within a week. In addition to the speeding charge, she faces a civil traffic violation for not providing proof of insurance during the traffic stop.
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