Imagine a prominent political figure, caught in a late-night traffic stop, spiraling into a tirade that mixes racial remarks with claims of untouchability—welcome to the latest scandal rocking Cranston's Democratic elite.

On Dec. 18, Maria A. Bucci, a 51-year-old former Cranston mayoral candidate and current chairman of the city's Democratic Committee, was charged with driving under the influence, unleashing a storm of controversy with her erratic behavior and inflammatory comments captured on police bodycam footage.

The incident unfolded just after midnight on Division Street when East Greenwich police pulled Bucci over for what an officer described as “pretty erratic” driving.

Erratic Driving Leads to Tense Confrontation

The officer, Anthony St. Laurent, reported smelling alcohol on her breath, yet Bucci insisted she’d only had “just a glass of wine” at a Christmas party and denied being intoxicated.

Things escalated quickly as she refused sobriety tests, including a breathalyzer, leaving her blood alcohol content a mystery per the police report obtained by ABC 6 News.

Instead of compliance, Bucci turned confrontational, slurring her words, yelling, and even spitting while barking orders at officers, as detailed in St. Laurent’s account.

Racial Comments Spark Public Outrage

Perhaps most jarring were her racially charged remarks, including, “If I was a black person I’d be arrested,” a statement that reeks of privilege and a misguided attempt to dodge accountability.

Let’s unpack that—while claiming victimhood, Bucci simultaneously flaunted her status, asking officers, “You know who I am, right?” only to be met with a refreshing, “I have no idea and don’t care,” from the officer.

Her words don’t just offend; they expose a troubling mindset that political clout or social standing should shield someone from consequences, a notion that grates against the principle of equal justice.

Invoking Status and Family Connections

Bucci didn’t stop at race-baiting; she repeatedly invoked family ties, mentioning a nephew and uncle in law enforcement, as if that should grant her a free pass.

She demanded her husband and the attorney general be called, accused officers of trying to embarrass her, and even taunted, “What are you going to do, shoot me?” per the bodycam footage.

Officer St. Laurent’s report paints a picture of unrelenting belligerence, noting she was “screaming” and “acting completely belligerent” toward everyone at the scene.

Abusive Tirade Continues at Headquarters

Even after being handcuffed and taken to headquarters, Bucci’s verbal assaults didn’t relent—she called St. Laurent “an evil f***ing piece of s***” and hurled insults like “only clowns become cops,” according to the officer’s report.

During booking, her hostility peaked with a chilling, “I’m going to get you mother******,” a threat that underscores the depth of her disregard for law enforcement, as documented in the police account.

Charged with misdemeanor DUI, laned roadway violations, and refusal to submit to a chemical test, Bucci was released on a $1,000 personal recognizance bond, with an arraignment set for Jan. 5 in Kent County District Court.