Wadsack’s $8M Lawsuit Alleges Tucson Officials Conspired to Violate Ex-GOP Senator’s Civil Rights

Former Arizona Senator Justine Wadsack has filed a lawsuit claiming more than $8 million in damages, alleging a conspiracy by Tucson police officers to politically target her. The lawsuit claims Tucson Police Department (TPD) personnel leaked details of her alleged traffic violation to the media and engaged in “malicious prosecution.” Wadsack’s attorneys argue that a report from the Tucson Sentinel, which detailed her citation for criminal speeding, included fabricated quotes attributed to her.

Wadsack contends she was unfairly prosecuted due to her political beliefs. In her 20-page lawsuit, filed Thursday, she claims that the TPD was involved in a coordinated effort to undermine her re-election during the Republican primary last year. She alleges that this conspiracy aimed to influence the election’s outcome by damaging her public image and career.

The lawsuit specifically names several TPD officials, including Lt. Lauren Pettey, Assistant Chief Kevin Hall, and Captain Frank Hand, who are accused of leaking information about Wadsack’s traffic stop before charges were formally filed. The suit also includes Officer Ryder Schrage, who initially stopped Wadsack for allegedly driving 71 mph in a 35 mph zone. She maintains that the actions taken against her were designed to harm her reputation and political career.

“Negative press” resulting from the incident allegedly cost Wadsack millions in political support, as she estimates that it amounted to roughly $9 million in negative media coverage for her primary opponent, although no evidence is provided to substantiate this claim. Wadsack’s attorney has emphasized that her statements were misrepresented within the reports published by the media.

City Attorney Mike Rankin dismissed Wadsack’s claims as “ridiculous” and stated that decisions to charge individuals are based solely on facts and evidence, independent of political affiliation. He emphasized that prior to her traffic stop, police had no knowledge of the driver’s identity.

Wadsack was stopped by Tucson police on March 15, 2024, while allegedly speeding in her Tesla. At the time, she explained to the officer that she was hurrying home due to a low battery. Despite her claims, the traffic stop proceeded, but charges were not filed until after the legislative session, in which she claimed immunity.

Wadsack has refuted claims that she was speeding, with the lawsuit alleging that the TPD engaged in procedural misconduct, including failing to disclose vital evidence such as radar readings. The suit claims she was unjustly targeted and that her legislative actions, including two controversial bills related to voting and city governance, provoked backlash from civic authorities.

In the aftermath of the traffic incident, Tucson city officials emphasized the difference between ‘persecution’ and ‘prosecution,’ asserting that adherence to traffic laws is expected of all citizens, regardless of their political position. The TPD has reiterated its commitment to impartial policing practices, asserting that public safety is the priority, particularly in light of rising traffic fatalities.

As the situation unfolds, Wadsack’s allegations have sparked discussion about legislative immunity and the treatment of elected officials facing legal scrutiny. The controversy has drawn attention to the broader implications of law enforcement and political accountability in Tucson.

The lawsuit has not received a response from Wadsack as of Sunday, nor has it been publicly substantiated through the court system. Meanwhile, Wadsack’s past legislative efforts have made her a polarizing figure, seen by some as a staunch advocate and by others as a controversial politician in Arizona’s state politics.