A Rhode Island aide recently gained attention after being caught on police body cam footage during a trespassing incident.
Devon Flanagan’s aide was placed on paid leave following her arrest outside a restaurant in Newport. However, the Attorney General’s office has now moved her to unpaid leave as they evaluate the situation, according to reports.
Flanagan has been noted to have a salary of around $113,000 annually, according to various state salary records mentioned in multiple reports.
Body cam footage from the encounter shows an officer approaching Flanagan and another woman outside the restaurant. When officers attempt to ask them to move away from the entrance, the women respond by trying to instruct the officers instead.
Flanagan insists, “I’m AG, I’m AG,” but the officers remain unfazed and continue urging them to step aside. As the situation escalates, the officer pulls out handcuffs and arrests Flanagan, who repeatedly asserts her position as they escort her to the police vehicle.
As she sits in the car, she warns the officer, saying, “Buddy, you’ll regret this,” once again shouting, “I’m AG!” just before the door closes.
Following the event, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronya expressed that Flanagan’s actions “put me in a bad position” and felt “embarrassing.” He reflected that he hadn’t faced many incidents like this during his tenure.
In response to the incident, Rhode Island Republicans have called for Flanagan’s termination, expressing frustration over what they perceive as arrogance. Chairman Jim Powers stated, “This was not just a bad judgment but a deliberate disobedience, misrepresentation of the law, and a display of the ruling class’s attitude.” He also commended the Newport police for their restraint and professionalism in the situation.
