A New Jersey councilman's traffic stop for allegedly disregarding a stop sign escalated into a contentious encounter with a police officer, captured on police body camera footage. The incident, involving Democratic Paulsboro Councilman Theodore D. Holloway II, occurred on January 4th.
The video reveals Holloway's immediate frustration as the officer approached his vehicle, questioning the reason for the stop. Holloway insisted he had stopped sufficiently. Upon being informed of the stop sign violation, Holloway responded defensively, using strong language. He then presented his driver's license.
During the exchange, Holloway invoked his position, mentioning Police Chief Gary Kille and claiming to be the officer's superior. He even proceeded to call Chief Kille directly from his car, reiterating his assertion of authority.
While the officer checked Holloway's license, he requested backup, describing the councilman's behavior as agitated. A supervising officer arrived, to whom Holloway also highlighted his elected status.
Mayor John Giovannitti commented on the incident, stating that Holloway's words were unprofessional and inaccurate, emphasizing that elected officials do not receive preferential treatment. He commended the officer's professional conduct. The borough administration discussed the incident with Holloway. Ultimately, Holloway received a citation for an expired vehicle registration, not for the alleged stop sign violation.
