NFL reporter Dianna Russini incorrectly claimed she used a FaceTime call with a head coach to avoid a texting-while-driving citation. While Russini told the Stugotz and Company radio show she FaceTimed a coach during the stop, bodycam footage released by Adam Herbets of the Center Square shows she only showed the officer a text message.
What does the bodycam video reveal about the traffic stop?
The seven-minute, 10-second video, released by Adam Herbets of the Center Square, documents the entirety of the traffic stop. The footage shows Russini telling the officer she is an NFL reporter who had just broken news regarding Sean McDermott’s departure from the Buffalo Bills. She stated she was attempting to send a tweet when the officer approached her vehicle.
During the interaction, Russini told the officer, “You know who I was on the phone with? Brian Daboll. He wants the job.” According to the video, Russini then showed the officer her phone to display a text exchange with Minnesota Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell. At no point in the recording does Russini engage in a FaceTime call with any coach.
How did the radio story differ from the recorded evidence?
A discrepancy exists between the account shared on the radio and the visual evidence from the traffic stop. In a February segment on the Stugotz and Company radio show, Russini claimed she used a FaceTime call with an NFL head coach to help her get out of a ticket.
The video evidence contradicts this specific detail. While Russini did mention coaching figures like Brian Daboll and showed a text from Kevin O’Connell, she did not use FaceTime. This distinction was highlighted in a recent New York Times article regarding the reporter.
| Detail | Radio Claim (Stugotz & Co) | Bodycam Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Communication Method | FaceTime Call | Showing a text message |
| Coach Involved | Unnamed head coach | Kevin O’Connell (via text) |
What was the outcome of the interaction with the officer?
The officer acknowledged that Russini’s job requires frequent phone use. After Russini commented that the Vikings’ “quarterback sucks,” the officer decided not to issue a formal citation.
“I’m gonna cut you a break on the cellphone,” the officer said, according to the footage. He advised her to wait until she got home to handle phone business. The officer, who identified himself as a Vikings fan, concluded the stop without a ticket.
Why is the availability of bodycam footage significant?
The release of this footage by Adam Herbets illustrates a growing trend of digital accountability. As law enforcement agencies increasingly release bodycam recordings, public anecdotes—even those shared by media professionals—can be verified against recorded reality. This provides a level of transparency that can confirm or refute claims made in broadcast or print media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Dianna Russini FaceTime a coach during her traffic stop?
No. While she claimed to have done so on a radio show, the bodycam footage shows she only showed the officer a text message.
Who released the bodycam video?
The video was posted by Adam Herbets of the Center Square.
Did Russini receive a ticket for texting while driving?
No. The officer told Russini he would “cut her a break” and did not issue a citation.
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