Rhode Island Mayoral Candidate Addresses Past Criminal History

A Democratic candidate for mayor in Rhode Island has stated that his troubling criminal past will not hinder his political aspirations.

The Providence mayoral election is set for 2026, with current Mayor Brett Smiley and state Representative David Morales, both Democrats, as prominent contenders in the race.

Another Democratic hopeful, Michael English, aged 54, has officially announced his candidacy. However, a recent article raised serious concerns regarding English’s history.

In a letter to Providence residents, English admitted to having a criminal record. “I acknowledge that I made some immature choices during my attempt to run for Congressional District 4 in 1996 that led to my arrest and time in prison. I also left Hope High School without graduating in 1990. I didn’t achieve my potential at that time,” he shared.

After completing his sentence, he emphasized his focus on self-improvement, noting achievements like obtaining his GED and certifications, even claiming to have supported several individuals who earned advanced degrees.

Reports indicate that English was convicted in 1998 for the molestation of a 13-year-old girl and was sentenced to 15 months in prison, despite the Attorney General’s Office recommending a much longer sentence. As part of his conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender, a requirement that was later lifted after ten years.

English was sentenced to another 19 months in prison a decade later due to allegations from his victim regarding a no-contact order violation.

Speaking to the press, English argued that those who believe his past disqualifies him from the mayorship are “legally mistaken.” He insisted, “What I’ve accomplished since then also matters. If I can’t demonstrate how to create something from nothing again, I don’t know who can.”

He criticized both of his competitors, claiming they are not beneficial for the city. “What we currently have is one socialist and Mayor Smiley,” he stated, asserting, “I know I might not be the frontrunner on paper, but if I play my cards right, I could win.”

Despite the legal issues surrounding his past, English’s criminal record has not been overturned or sealed, although certain details have been kept confidential under longstanding court protocols established to safeguard child victims. This has raised questions about the transparency of such cases, as noted in the Providence Journal.