Ticketed Woman Files Federal Privacy Suit Over Cop's Date Request
A woman who received a $132 speeding ticket has filed a lawsuit claiming the officer violated her privacy by using her personal information to track down her car and attach a note asking for a date.
Evangelina Paredes filed the suit last week in federal court in Chicago, report the Associated Press and Courthouse News Service. The complaint (PDF) alleges violation of constitutional and state privacy rights, intentional infliction of emotional distress, civil rights violations, and violation of the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act.
According to the suit, the officer from suburban Stickney used motor vehicle records to find Paredes’ car and leave a note on her windshield.
Labeled Exhibit B in the suit, the note begins: “Hello, It’s Chris I’m that ugly bald Stickney cop who gave you that ticket on Saturday. I know this may seem crazy and you’re probably right, but truth is I have not stopped thinking about you since. I don’t expect a girl as attractive as you to be single, or even go for a guy like me but I’m taking a shot anyways. … Listen if I never hear from you I understand, but hey I did cost you $132 least I can do is buy you dinner.”
Defendants include the officer, Christopher Collins; the police chief; and the village of Stickney. Collins told AP on Tuesday that he hadn’t hired a lawyer yet and he had no comment.
Hat tip to the Illinois State Bar Association Daily Legal News.
