Devon Flanagan Suspended for Six Months After Viral 'You'll Regret This!' Meltdown — Still Hasn't Apologised

A Rhode Island prosecutor has been suspended for six months after a drunken confrontation with police went viral earlier this year. Devon Flanagan, caught on bodycam footage berating officers and warning them they would 'regret this', has yet to issue a public apology for the outburst that shook both her career and the state's legal community.

The Viral Arrest

The incident took place on Rhode Island, Police stopped Flanagan after she had been drinking, and their bodycam footage captured what quickly became a viral moment. Slurring her words, the prosecutor berated officers, repeatedly invoking her position and warning: 'You'll regret this. You have no idea who you're dealing with.'

The video spread rapidly across social media platforms, sparking outrage among residents and embarrassment for Rhode Island's justice system. Many viewers questioned how someone responsible for upholding the law could so openly try to intimidate the officers detaining her.

According to the arrest report, Flanagan was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Though she avoided jail time, the incident was referred to the Rhode Island Supreme Court's disciplinary board for review of her conduct as a licensed attorney.

The Supreme Court's Ruling

After months of review, the Rhode Island Supreme Court announced this week that Flanagan will be suspended from practising law for six months. In its ruling, the court described her actions as 'unprofessional behaviour' and 'conduct unbecoming of an officer of the court'.

The justices stressed that prosecutors must be held to the highest standards of accountability. 'The integrity of our profession requires that those entrusted with the power of prosecution demonstrate respect for both the law and the community', the decision stated.

As part of her suspension, Flanagan must undergo counselling and complete a professional responsibility course before applying for reinstatement. The court acknowledged alcohol played a role in the incident but noted that she has not offered a formal public apology to either the officers or the public.

Fallout and Reaction

The footage of Flanagan's arrest has been viewed widely online and continues to circulate months later. Critics argue that her attempt to use her position to intimidate officers represents an abuse of authority. 'It's unacceptable for anyone to behave this way, let alone a prosecutor', one Rhode Island resident told local reporters.

Within the state's legal community, the decision has sparked debate. Some argue the six-month suspension is too lenient given the seriousness of the incident, while others believe it is an appropriate penalty that reflects both accountability and the opportunity for rehabilitation.

The case has also renewed discussion about how personal misconduct by public officials can erode trust in institutions. For many Rhode Islanders, the viral footage became a symbol of what happens when those tasked with enforcing the law appear to place themselves above it.

What Lies Ahead

Flanagan remains barred from court appearances and new legal work until her suspension ends in early 2026. Her future in law will depend on completing the court-ordered treatment and retraining, as well as regaining the confidence of colleagues and the public.

For now, she remains silent, while some call for understanding if alcohol dependency played a role, others insist an apology is the least that should be expected from someone in her position.

What began as a routine police stop has now left Devon Flanagan's career in limbo, overshadowed by a viral video and a phrase 'You'll regret this' that will likely follow her far longer than her suspension.