ANNUAL REPORT

2017

Rhode Island State Police

311 Danielson Pike

North Scituate, RI 02857

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TABLE OF CONTENTS LETTER FROM COLONEL ASSUMPICO ____________________________ 3

ORGANIZATIONAL CHART _______________________________________ 4

COMMAND STAFF ______________________________________________ 5

2017 BY THE NUMBERS _________________________________________ 6

PATROL BUREAU ______________________________________________ 7

Lincoln Woods Barracks – Lieutenant John P. Charbonneau _______________________ 7

Scituate Barracks – Lieutenant Alfred Ruggiero, Jr. _______________________________ 7

Hope Valley Barracks – Lieutenant John W. Gibbs _______________________________ 7

Wickford Barracks – Lieutenant Erik W. Jones ___________________________________ 8

Commercial Enforcement Unit – Sergeant John E. Furtado ________________________ 8

Operations – Lieutenant Michael D. Casey _____________________________________ 8

DETECTIVE BUREAU___________________________________________ 10

Computer Crimes – Lieutenant Eric M. Yelle ___________________________________ 10

Cyber Crimes/Joint Cyber Task Force – Captain John C. Alfred ____________________ 10

Financial Crimes – Lieutenant Christopher J. Schram ____________________________ 11

Forensic Services Unit- Lieutenant John H. Grassel _____________________________ 11

Fusion Center – Lieutenant William F. Accardi__________________________________ 11

Gaming Enforcement Unit – Lieutenant Timothy E. Allen, Jr. ______________________ 12

HIDTA/Narcotics – Lieutenant Peter J. Chabot _________________________________ 12

Major Crimes – Lieutenant Robert A. Creamer _________________________________ 12

Violent Fugitive Task Force – Sergeant Timothy J. Dandeneau ____________________ 13

ADMINISTRATIVE BUREAU _____________________________________ 14

Facilities/Capital Projects Management – Lieutenant Richard D. Swanson ___________ 14

Fleet/Supply Administration – Lieutenant Sean P. O’Hern _________________________ 14

Management Information Systems – Mr. James Shea ____________________________ 15

Planning, Research & Accreditation– Lieutenant Laurie Ludovici ___________________ 15

Radio Services – Mr. Thomas Crotty _________________________________________ 15

Technical Services – Mr. William K. Guy ______________________________________ 16

Training Academy – Lieutenant Kenneth D. Jones ______________________________ 17

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS ___________________________________ 18

Overview ______________________________________________________________ 18

Statistical Tables ________________________________________________________ 18

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LETTER FROM COLONEL ASSUMPICO

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ORGANIZATIONAL CHART

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COMMAND STAFF

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2017 BY THE NUMBERS

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PATROL BUREAU The Patrol Bureau is responsible for the p olicing of al l state highways, the investigation of accidents and incidents on those highways, and the conduct of inspection and enforcement programs essential to the safety of citizens on those highways. Additionally , Patrol Bureau Troopers perform all functions associated with the statewide enforcement of laws, the prevention of crime, the pursuit and apprehension of offenders, and the gathering of legal evidence to ensure conviction of such offenders.

Lincoln Woods Barracks – Lieutenant John P. Charbonneau

In 2017 Troopers from the Lincoln Woods Barracks investigated 984 incidents and made 1,446 arrests. Of these arrests, 151 were for Driving under the Influence (DUI) of Intoxicating Liquor and/or Drugs. With responsibility for patrolling the highways through the Providence metropolitan area, traffic problems are a significant strain on resources. In 2017 the Lincoln Woods Barracks investigated 4,343 motor vehicle accidents. Troopers are commitment to enforcement of the State’s traffic safety laws and issued 7,555 traffic citations for motor vehicle code violations. In a continuing effort to reduce fatal accidents in the patrol area, patrol members conducted traffic enforcement details in locations prone to fatal crashes resulting in over 1,200 citations.

Scituate Barracks – Lieutenant Alfred Ruggiero, Jr.

In 2017 Scituate Barracks Troopers made 631 arrests with 63 resulting in the apprehension of operators Driving under the Influence (DUI) of Intoxicating Liquor and/or Drugs. Additionally, Troopers investigated 556 incidents and complaints and handled 899 motor vehicle accidents. Through concentrated traffic enforcement efforts, Troopers issued 6,154 traffic citations of which, 1,294 were for violation of the State’s child-restraint and seat belt laws.

Hope Valley Barracks – Lieutenant John W. Gibbs

Troopers at the Hope Valley Barracks are committed to thorough criminal investigations, domestic highway enforcement, and traffic safety. In 2017 Hope Valley Troopers investigated 479 motor vehicle crashes that included 154 injures and 7 fatalities. Troopers are committed to traffic enforcement and issued 6,721 citations. Troopers also arrested 551 individuals for various criminal and motor vehicle offenses, including 91 Driving While Under the Influence (DUI) of Intoxicating Liquor and/or Drugs arrests and 55 narcotic violations. Troopers also investigated 710 incidents.

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Wickford Barracks – Lieutenant Erik W. Jones

During 2017, members of the Wickford/Portsmouth Barracks arrested 698 individuals for various criminal and motor vehicle offenses, including 124 arrests for Driving under the Influence, 38 of which were Refusals to submit to a chemical test. Troopers issued 11,080 citations, handled 1,174 incidents, and responded to 997 accidents, of which, two (2) were fatalities.

Commercial Enforcement Unit – Sergeant John E. Furtado

During 2017, the Commercial Enforcement Unit performed 2,757 roadside inspections which included 112 hazardous materials carriers. As a result of these roadside inspections, 7,201 violations were cited with 514 vehicles and 147 drivers being placed Out of Service due to unsafe operating conditions. Troopers also conducted 634 Traffic Enforcement related stops yielding 2,035 violations. Commercial Enforcement Unit Troopers are called upon to speak at various safety meetings and provide valuable information to the commercial trucking industry. Commercial Enforcement Unit Troopers provide training to local police officers that include topics such as Commercial Vehicle Traffic Enforcement and Size and Weight Enforcement. Members of the Commercial Enforcement Unit sit on a variety of committees that influence the commercial motor vehicle industry on both a local and national level. Rhode Island has maintained a low commercial motor vehicle crash and fatality rating for several years and was recognized by the Federal Motor Carrier Administration for the lowest commercial motor vehicle fatality rate for the calendar years 2011 through 2014. The Rhode Island Commercial Enforcement Unit was ranked 4th in the Nation as a High-Performance State by the American Transportation Research Institute for Exemplary Safety and Enforcement Performance activity.

Operations – Lieutenant Michael D. Casey

During 2017, the Operations Office coordinated the Division’s response to such events as the Swearing-In ceremony for Colonel Ann Assumpico, State of the State Address, Pell Bridge Run, Rhode Island National Guard Air Show, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA) Conference, National Governor’s Association Conference, Motion Picture “SEARCHDOG” Premiere, MS Bike Run, Four Bridge Ride, several full scale and table top exercises dealing with homeland security and emergency preparedness operations, Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals, The Big “E” Eastern States Exposition, several parades to include the Bristol Independence Day Celebration and other ceremonies that involve the Division Honor Guard Unit. In addition, the Operations Officer oversees and creates operational plans for numerous dignitary security protection details that included visits to Rhode Island by House Speaker Paul Ryan and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, and numerous other political and military dignitaries.

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DETECTIVE BUREAU The Detective Bureau is comprised of detectives , investigators and task force officers from federal and local agencies who investigate crimes that require specialized investigative techniques. Some of these techniques include forensic examinations and the cultivation of informants. They require exhaustive dedication, and ultimately, accurate court testimony to pursue a case through to its f inal resolution.

Computer Crimes – Lieutenant Eric M. Yelle

The Computer Crimes Unit (CCU) investigates criminal violations of law which often involve the use of a computer in the commission of the crime. These crimes encompass all types of criminal activity ranging from traditional crimes to online violations to include unlawful computer access, online fraud, identity theft, child exploitation and network intrusions. The Rhode Island ICAC Task Force (RIICAC) is a Department of Justice grant-funded program administered by the Rhode Island State Police CCU. RIICAC is comprised of six (6) members of the CCU along with detectives from the Warwick Police Department, Cranston Police Department, Newport Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, Bristol Police, Woonsocket Police Department, North Kingstown Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the United States Postal Inspection Services (USPIS). In 2017, the CCU completed multiple arrest operations stemming from 61 proactive, undercover investigations, investigated approximately 596 complaints, made 73 arrests, completed 286 forensic analyses, and provided 189 technical assists to Division members or other members of law enforcement.

Cyber Crimes/Joint Cyber Task Force – Captain John C. Alfred

The agency remains diligent in its efforts to expand and train members of the Rhode Island Joint Cyber Task Force (RIJCTF) to improve responses to a myriad of possible scenarios that we face as an increasingly technologically-dependent society. The RIJCTF consists of over 140 representatives from various public and private sector agencies who recognize the need for a unified effort against cyber threats to our infrastructure. The RIJCTF continues to grow furthering capabilities to provide coordinated analysis, support, and response both during and prior to a potential cyber incident. The RIJCTF worked hard to continue the mission and spirit of the Governor’s Cybersecurity Commission by implementing several cybersecurity initiatives for the municipality infrastructure, and has worked closely with Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and the Community College of Rhode Island on their HOTSIM higher education implementation. Cyber-related educational outreach included full support of CyberPatriot, numerous presentations regarding the implementation of Cisco Networking Academies, and HOTSIM demonstrations for both high school and college students.

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The Task Force has conducted several trainings and outreach support for local cities, towns, and businesses, both as a pre-emptive effort and as a response to various malware infections. The Joint Cyber Task Force also began working with CCRI to host a cyber range training for JCTF members in 2018.

Financial Crimes – Lieutenant Christopher J. Schram

The Financial Crimes Unit is staffed with a diverse group of personnel skilled in areas of criminal investigation involving fraud, also known as “white collar crime.” Unit personnel hold advanced degrees in law, accounting and taxation and have earned financial designations such as Certified Public Accountant and Certified Fraud Examiner. The Unit is called upon to investigate a wide variety of financially motivated crimes that include public corruption, extortion, embezzlement, obtaining money by false pretenses, mortgage fraud, forgery, credit card fraud, bank fraud, identity theft, and money laundering. In 2017 the unit opened 92 investigations, closed 121 investigations and made 66 arrests.

Forensic Services Unit- Lieutenant John H. Grassel

The Rhode Island State Police Forensic Service Unit (FSU) is responsible for the processing of crime scenes, providing technical services with criminal investigations, and assisting agencies with forensic investigations. The FSU is the first and only ISO Accredited police crime laboratory in the State of Rhode Island. FSU specialties include: crime scene processing and documentation, which includes Leica 3D scanning capabilities, digital photography, evidence processing, latent print development and comparison, footwear impression development and comparison, blood spatter interpretation, shooting reconstruction and video analysis.

Fusion Center – Lieutenant William F. Accardi

The mission of the Fusion Center is to facilitate the timely and accurate exchange of information between local, state, and federal public safety agencies as well as private sector organizations. Through a cooperative and coordinated approach, the Fusion Center augments law enforcement operations by acting as a centralized, comprehensive criminal intelligence center to coordinate the exchange of criminal information to identify, investigate and prevent criminal activity relevant to terrorism and public safety. The Fusion Center works closely with the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that it meets nationally recognized benchmarks and standards. During 2017 the Fusion Center:

• Received a total of 1,685 requests for information from law enforcement agencies

• Generated 40 informational bulletins

• Investigated 130 incidents generally initiated through tips and leads

• Hosted 23 Information Sharing/Community Outreach sessions

• Managed the Rhode Island Most Wanted Website

• Processed 131 submissions to the Rhode Island Most Wanted Website.

• Received 68 tips from RIMW posts.

• 52 suspects were identified and/or captured based on RIMW posts/tips – a 40% success rate

• Trained all Fusion Center staff in both Privacy Policy and 28-CFR-23

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Gaming Enforcement Unit – Lieutenant Timothy E. Allen, Jr.

During the 2017, members of the Gaming Enforcement Unit made 77 arrests that included the criminal charges of casino cheating, willful trespass, vandalism, larceny, possession and delivery of a controlled substance, counterfeit currency, fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. The Gaming Enforcement Unit investigated or assisted in a total of 995 separate incidents, and /or arrests. The primary focus of the Gaming Enforcement Unit is related to conducting background investigations on applicants seeking employment at the Twin River Casino and protecting the integrity of the casino gaming operations. Members of the unit work daily with members of the Rhode Island Lottery concerning various criminal investigations, the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation-Division of Racing and Athletics, as well as assisting State, Local, and Federal law enforcement agencies with various criminal investigations to include the sharing of intelligence gathered by the Gaming Enforcement Unit.

HIDTA/Narcotics – Lieutenant Peter J. Chabot The Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force is a statewide task force managed by the Rhode Island State Police Narcotics Unit. The Task Force is comprised of Rhode Island State Police Detectives, Special Agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Bureau of Homeland Security, (HSI), along with full time Detectives from the Pawtucket, Johnston, West Warwick, Lincoln and Middletown Police Departments as well as an Inspector from the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (ACI) assigned on a part-time basis. The Rhode Island National Guard Counterdrug Support Program has two (2) analysts assigned. The Narcotics Unit / HIDTA Task Force is responsible for conducting investigations relating to violations of the federal and state Uniformed Controlled Substance Act by identifying, dismantling and targeting for prosecution core and secondary Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTO) that import and / or distribute illegal narcotics in or through the State of Rhode Island. In 2017, the Narcotics Unit/HIDTA Task Force was involved in the investigation of 174 drug-related cases resulting in 99 state and federal criminal arrests, and nine (9) other criminal arrests.

Major Crimes – Lieutenant Robert A. Creamer

During 2017 members of the Major Crimes Unit made 179 arrests and investigated or assisted in 356 separate incidents. These cases were directed to the Major Crimes Unit through either an initial barracks investigation, walk-in complaint, complaint filed at the Detective Office located at the Adult Correctional Institution, or when called to assist with local law enforcement investigations. The Major Crimes Unit also has two (2) detectives assigned to the Adult Correctional Institution (ACI). These detectives thoroughly investigate all complaints made by both prison employees and incarcerated inmates. These detectives also collect criminal information from prisoner investigators employed at the Department of Corrections, which is then shared with other law enforcement agencies to bolster officer safety. Detectives assigned to the ACI handle the prosecution of all inmates who are considered fugitives from other states. These detectives also handle offenders who are in the custody of the Department of Children, Youth and Families at the Rhode Island Youth Detention Center.

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Violent Fugitive Task Force – Sergeant Timothy J. Dandeneau

In 2017 members of the Violent Fugitive Task Force arrested 225 people wanted by law enforcement agencies and courts within the State of Rhode Island and across the nation. These arrests included:

• six (6) wanted for murder

• eight (8) wanted for armed robbery

• three (3) wanted for bank robbery

• ten (10) wanted for sexual assault/child molestation

• thirteen (13) wanted for drug charges

• four (4) wanted for breaking and entering/home invasion

• twenty (20) wanted for Felony assault with a dangerous weapon to include firearms The Violent Fugitive Task Force brought additional criminal charges on persons for new firearms charges, resisting arrest and obstruction of justice and various drug charges. Members seized multiple guns and drugs during these investigations. Members also arrested multiple subjects for escape from the Adult Correctional Institution (ACI) and escape from Home Confinement.

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ADMINISTRATIVE BUREAU The Administrative Bureau provides the materials and services that enable the Department to accomplish its mission. The Bureau’s responsibil ities include all aspects of personnel management, information technology, procurement, vehicles and facil ities and consists of Fleet/Supply Administration, Management Information Systems Unit (MIS), Planning, Research & Accreditation, Technical Services, and the Radio Bureau.

Facilities/Capital Projects Management – Lieutenant Richard D. Swanson

The Facilities and Capital Projects Manager is responsible for maintenance and improvements to the 12 buildings on the Headquarters complex, the five (5) patrol barracks, the Training Academy property, and offices located at 50 Service Avenue in Warwick. The Facilities and Capital Project manager is responsible for the security and surveillance systems at Headquarters and all barracks locations, the oversight of the Division’s Technical Services Unit, and the Division’s Maintenance Unit. The Facilities and Capital Projects Manager is responsible for coordinating with members of the State’s Department of Administration’s Department of Capital Management and Maintenance (DCAMM). Capital Projects protection is defined as maintenance, replacement, or acquisition of assets with a life expectancy of greater than (10) ten years and costs of greater than $50,000. The Facilities and Capital Projects manager is responsible for ensuring accountability of, and value for, public dollars while operating within the standard specifications for purchases, contracts, bids and awards as specified by the RI Division of Purchasing. Under the direction of the Department of Administration, the Division of State Police is implementing a Masterplan Program. This Masterplan will identify the Division’s short and long-term mission, the program and facility needs, as well as capital investment priorities through the year 2040. The Facilities and Capital Projects manager is responsible for the successful completion of the Masterplan through the coordination of all participating agencies, to include the Rhode Island State Police, Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance, Office of Management and Budget, Office of Energy Resources, Department of Environmental Management, Department of Transportation, RI Commerce Corporation, and the Quonset Development Corporation.

Fleet/Supply Administration – Lieutenant Sean P. O’Hern

The Fleet/Supply Unit is responsible for the monitoring and maintenance of the Division’s Performance Appraisal Management System which requires annual performance appraisals of all sworn and civilian personnel, as well as probationary and post promotional appraisals of all Division members. Additionally, all collision reports involving Rhode Island State Police vehicles are reviewed by the office and submitted quarterly to the Division’s Collision Review Board. The office also processes all uniform requests and handles subsequent uniform and gear distribution and tracking. The office ensures that the Division is properly equipped and complies with the Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) standards pertaining to equipment, vehicles, and record keeping. The office is responsible for Division vehicle fleet management which includes researching vehicles and equipment that best fits Division needs, ordering new vehicles, writing vehicle specifications, purchasing emergency equipment, monitoring fleet maintenance, approving major repairs,

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registrations for all vehicles, auto body repair, ordering tires, gas cards, completing monthly and yearly mileage reports, entering data of all maintenance performed on vehicles, and facilitating factory recalls or other vehicle safety issues in the fleet. As of January 2018, the Division has 364 vehicles assigned and is in the process of purchasing new vehicles to replace the older vehicles in the fleet. Additionally, the office oversees the Management Information Systems Unit (MIS) and the Radio Services Unit.

Management Information Systems – Mr. James Shea

The Management Information Systems (MIS) Unit maintains the operation and enhancement of the Rhode Island State Police’s Wide Area Network. This network encompasses the entire state, consisting of four (4) barracks, the Rhode Island State Police (RISP) Headquarters building, the RISP Training Academy, and various remote locations. The unit manages many types of computing systems, all integrated to work towards the common goal of delivering information to Division members.

The MIS Unit has been busy upgrading and maintaining network security by implementing new policies, up to date security software and procedures. The unit has instituted an automated help desk system that allows the unit to provide more efficient service and provide tracking capabilities to trouble shooting and maintain a solution database. The unit strives toward updating technology, not just at the infrastructure level, but also in the mobile arena. New techniques and technologies are being developed to keep up with the ever-changing technological world.

Planning, Research & Accreditation– Lieutenant Laurie Ludovici

The Planning, Research & Accreditation Unit conducts research, collects and compiles statistical information, and prepares documents on law enforcement related issues to enhance the operational and administrative capabilities of the Division. The unit also coordinates the preparation, revision and editing of all policies, procedures, directives, and practices to satisfy standards promulgated by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and the Rhode Island Police Accreditation Commission (RIPAC). The unit also responds to inquiries from law enforcement agencies, represents the Division on various national, state, and local organizations and committees regarding law enforcement and highway safety issues, organizes and coordinates Division functions and events, manages the Division Public Speaking and Internship Programs. An essential aspect of the Division’s highway safety efforts is education and outreach. Educational efforts are intended to get the various highway safety messages to the appropriate audience. In 2017 the unit coordinated over 230 public speaking engagements that included child occupant protection, seat belt use, teen driving, distracted driving, and impaired driving. The Planning, Research and Accreditation Unit oversees the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) System which is staffed by a full-time civilian Operations Manager. The Rhode Island UCR System conforms to the specifications of the Criminal Justice Information Services of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which provides a view of crime based on the submission of statistics by law enforcement agencies.

Radio Services – Mr. Thomas Crotty

The Radio Services Unit is responsible for the performance of the Rhode Island State Police radio communication system. The radio system provides voice and data communications for the Division and are supported by 13 communication sites located throughout the state. The system also supports radio traffic for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, Department of Environmental Management,

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and the Department of Transportation Traffic Operations Center. In addition to the state agencies, the RISP radio infrastructure also supports the statewide 800 MHZ interoperable radio system (RISCON). This radio network is used by numerous cities and towns as their primary radio system, but also provides statewide interoperability for thousands of first responders. The infrastructure also supports radio systems used by the FBI, US Coast Guard, FAA, NOAA and other governmental agencies. The microwave and 800 MHz radio communication systems are the lifeline of the Rhode Island State Police, and it is imperative that the systems are at an optimum level of performance. The staff inspects and monitors all communication sites on a regular basis to ensure that the systems are kept at the highest level of reliability. Radio Services is responsible for the installation and repair of the Rhode Island State Police fleet emergency systems that include emergency lights, radio equipment, mobile data and radar units.

Technical Services – Mr. William K. Guy

At the heart of the Rhode Island State Police Technical Services Unit is the Rhode Island Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (RILETS), which provides network services and data access to law enforcement officers statewide. The RILETS network connects to 70 criminal justice agencies within the state, providing a vital link to local, state, regional and national criminal justice data resources. Drivers’ license information, motor vehicle registration information, criminal history and wanted persons checks are among some of the data elements provided by the RILETS network to the law enforcement community. The RILETS network support and help desk services are available twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. RILETS provides connectivity to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) national network located in West Virginia and the NLETS (The International Justice and Public Safety) national network located in Arizona. An important component of the RILETS network is the management of several statewide data sharing interfaces to include:

• Crash Report Interface – The Crash Report Interface facilitates the transfer of crash report data from law enforcement agencies throughout the state to the Department of Transportation’s Crash Repository over the RILETS network.

• J Link Interface – The J Link Interface provides for the exchange of arrest and disposition data between the courts and all Rhode Island police agencies over the RILETS network.

• Citation Interface – The Citation Interface provides for the exchange of citations and citation disposition data between law enforcement agencies and the Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal over the RILETS network.

• Cross Agency Interface – The Cross-Agency Interface provides for the exchange of name and vehicle data between police agencies over the RILETS network.

• Department of Motor Vehicles Interface – The Department of Motor Vehicles Interface provides Rhode Island driver and vehicle data to police officers in Rhode Island and nationwide.

• Criminal History Interface – The Criminal History Interface provides access to Rhode Island criminal history data, from the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, to law enforcement agencies within Rhode Island and nationwide.

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Training Academy – Lieutenant Kenneth D. Jones

In 2017 the Division continued its mandatory In-Service training program. The In-Service training program is designed to provide sworn members with all mandatory training courses in three (3) separate phases, totaling 33 hours, conducted throughout the calendar year. The three phases consisted of: Domestic Violence Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Recertification (CPR), QuikClot®, Taser Updates & Recertification, Narcan and Law Enforcement Ethics, Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Re-certification, the Annual Firearms/Weapons Qualifications and Field Force Operations, Resiliency Training, Domestic Highway Enforcement, Response to Resistance and the Firearms Qualifications to include Night Firearms Qualifications. The Training Academy continued an on-line training program that included Cultural Diversity/Bias Based Policing, Usual Occurrences/All Hazards Plan, and First Aid/Bloodborne Pathogens. The Training Academy handles a variety of public service functions that include conducting career awareness programs at many area high schools and colleges in Rhode Island as part of a continuing effort to recruit and attract qualified candidates for the Rhode Island State Police. At the end of 2017, the Training Academy began recruitment for the 2018 Rhode Island State Police Recruit Training Academy stressing the importance on recruiting the most qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds, with an emphasis on minority and female populations.

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PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

Overview

The Professional Standards Unit (PSU) is responsible for the investigation of all complaints and allegations made against sworn and civilian members of the Division of State Police. The PSU strives to ensure that the integrity of the Division remains intact. Each investigation is conducted objectively, thoroughly, and without bias. A comprehensive investigation will end with one of three determined classifications: founded, unfounded, or unsubstantiated. Founded complaints result in disciplinary sanctions or corrective actions in compliance with Division policy. In 2017, the Rhode Island State Police interacted with the public during 71, 641 calls for service, 38,220 motor vehicle stops, 4,148 arrests, 6,113 investigations and 6,758 accident investigations. Considering calls for service and motor vehicle stops alone, Division members interacted with a minimum of approximately 110,000 people. This is a very conservative estimate considering many of these incidents may have involved multiple contacts. During that same period the PSU received thirty-six (36) complaints that were investigated through the internal investigation process. Sixteen (16) of these cases were determined to be unfounded or unsubstantiated. Sixteen (16) cases were determined to be founded and required corrective action or disciplinary sanctions. There are two (2) cases pending disposition and two (2) complaints involved members of other agencies. These complaints were turned over to professional standards representatives of those agencies. The thirty-four (34) investigations conducted by the PSU in 2017 represent less than .03% of the contacts Division members made throughout the year.

Statistical Tables

Summary of Professional Standards Unit Investigations for Calendar-Year 2017

Type of Investigation # of

Investigations Unfounded-

Unsubstantiated Founded w/Discipline

Pending N/A

Unprofessional Behavior (Sworn) 13 9 4 0 Job Performance (Sworn) 10 2 8 0 Racial Profiling (Sworn) 2 2 0 0 Off-Duty Conduct (Sworn) 5 1 3 1 Off-Duty Conduct (Civilian) 2 1 1 0 Officer Involved Shooting 1 0 0 1 Other 1 1 Received complaint regarding other agency personnel/Turned over to appropriate agency

2 0 0 0 2

TOTAL: 36 16 16 2 2

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Summary of Use of Force Incidents for Calendar-Year 2017

Division members responded to 71, 640 calls for service, conducted 38,220 motor vehicle stops, affected 4,148 arrests, conducted 6,133 investigations and investigated 6,758 accidents in 2017. Considering only arrests (4,148), Division members utilized force 1.03% of the times they were involved in affecting an arrest. This is below the national average of 1.6%.

Comparison to Previous Years

Force Type Proper Use-Justified Unjustified/Discipline Total

Physical 29 0 29

Physical w/Cap Stun 0 0 0

Physical w/Taser 3 0 3

Physical w/K9 1 1

Physical w/Baton & Taser

1 0 1

Taser 4 0 4

Taser w/K9 0 0 0

K9 0 0 0

Lethal Force 1 0 1

Firearm Drawn to Gain Compliance

4 0 4

Discharge of Firearm (Animal Euthanasia)

5 0 5

TOTAL 48 0 48

Force Type 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011

Physical 29 18 18 19 39 44 17

Physical w/ Cap-Stun 0 1 0 0 1 0 3

Physical w/Baton 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Physical w/ Taser 3 1 8 10 4 2 5

Physical w/K9 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

Physical w/Baton &

Taser 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

Taser 4 2 4 0 0 0 0

Taser w/K9 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

K9 0 1 1 0 1 1 0

Lethal Force 1 0 0 1 0 1 0

Firearm Drawn to

Gain Compliance (No

discharge) 4 5 3 5 3 0 0

Discharge of Firearm

(Animal Euthanasia) 5 7 4 8 9 8 6

TOTALS 48 36 39 43 57 56 29