Jury seating area - file photo. — Jury seating area - File Photo.

VERMONT — Gregory Bombard, a motorist in Vermont, has filed a lawsuit against State Trooper Jay Riggen, accusing him of unconstitutional and retaliatory false arrest during a traffic stop on February 9, 2018. The lawsuit, initiated in February, claims unreasonable seizure, false arrest, and retaliation against constitutionally protected speech, seeking an unspecified amount in damages.

Bombard, expressing his respect for law enforcement, emphasized the importance of officers respecting the Constitution. He stated, “Those who betray their oath have to be held accountable.” The lawsuit comes after the release of police body camera footage, which Bombard’s attorney, Jay Diaz, argues shows the stop was unconstitutional.

Diaz, a senior attorney with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression working alongside the ACLU, criticized the trooper’s actions. He commented, “Police are charged with protecting the public, not their own bruised egos,” suggesting that the footage indicated the officer’s motive was not concerned with Bombard’s safety but rather with punishing him for his perceived disrespect.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News