Q: Stopped 7/2020 by a MDSP in Cecil County cited for missing front plate and a brake light. $140 fine.
During stop trooper wore no face mask committing a Misdemeanor. Filed an internal affairs complaint, which was investigated and sustained as true. I asked for officer to be charged, but Commander refused. I have tickets ($140) and requested a trial, which has been postponed 2 times by the State. New trial is 180 days after offense. I have not filed criminal charges against the trooper. I believe I have a year to do so. I intend to request Prosecutor dismiss given the misdemeanor offense. If not then I want charges filed against Trooper.
What is likelihood this may work? Do I have speedy trial grounds? Gets better: Rx'ed a 2nd stop (12/20) misuse of a horn with same Trooper. I believe this one is wholly defensible, but I believe the officer has an issue over IA complaint. Would it help at all to address a letter to the SA office outlining the situation prior to my court date and request dismissal, or wait until day of trial? Cost of an attorney is prohibitive.
A:
What you describe may or may not constitute legal defenses to the charges against you. However, the plate and light are usually "fix it" tickets and you should have proof of correction when you go to court. If you plead "no contest" you can raise the misbehavior of the trooper as a legal defense at your arraignment, otherwise plead not guilty and go to trial. Acting as your own attorney carries numerous risks but you have the right to do it. Consult a local traffic ticket attorney.
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