New Orleans Councilwoman has run-in with State Police


New Orleans City Council member Cynthia Hedge-Morrell (District D) was under fire Thursday for allegedly abusing her power by driving dangerously in a city SUV, and then yelling at a state trooper who pulled her over.

Hedge-Morrell issued an apology for the incident, which happened on February 26, when a state trooper clocked the councilwoman flying down I-10 at close to 100 miles per hour just before 9 a.m. Morrell was reportedly in a city-provided SUV and using the vehicle’s blue flashing lights to help cut through traffic.

State Police said when they pulled Morrell over and asked her to step out of the vehicle, she refused, and said “Do you know who I am?” Morrell told the trooper that she was on her way to an important meeting with FEMA officials. A similar incident involving Morrell occurred in January.

Morrell was not issued a ticket, according to State Police. In one report, investigators said troopers showed immense restraint with Morrell since they did not arrest her.

On Wednesday, Morrell issued the following statement regarding the most recent incident: "I was rushing to a meeting with FEMA about the Holy Cross issue. I was driving beyond the speed limit. I deeply regret the incident and will try to be a better driver in the future."

At Thursday's City Council meeting, Morrell sat stoned-faced and declined interviews with the media. However, she read a statement taking full responsibility for her actions.

"...When I taught children, I always told them to step up and take responsibility when you make a mistake. Admit what you did wrong, and only use the word 'I,'" Morrell said.

At a bus stop in her district, residents voiced disappointment and anger.

“She should face the consequences,” said Gentilly resident Louella Richard. “That's what it was, she was abusing her power.”

The blue lights in the vehicle are allowed only for law enforcement, but many politicians have them in their government cars because they are often driven by police.

“I don’t think it’s appropriate to use them,” said Councilman-at-Large Arnie Fielkow. “I think we need to make sure we as council members obey the law.”