Rhode Island Aide Faces Consequences After Arrest
A Rhode Island aide has been placed on unpaid leave following her embarrassing arrest, which quickly gained media attention.
Devon Flanagan, 34, was taken into custody on August 14 for intentional trespassing at the Clark Cookhouse Restaurant in Newport. Following the incident, she will be on six months of unpaid leave, according to officials.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronya commented on the situation, stating, “Devon Flanagan’s actions embarrassed herself, her office, and, frankly, me.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining high professional standards for attorneys, which Flanagan clearly failed to uphold.
The police arrived at the restaurant around 10 p.m. after a drunken friend of Flanagan’s refused to leave. During the encounter, Flanagan attempted to interfere with the police body camera, claiming officers had to turn it off if requested.
“I’m an AG! I’m an AG!” she shouted at the police while they tried to apprehend her for not complying. As she was being escorted to the police vehicle, she warned the officers, “You’ll regret this. You’ll regret it. I’m an A.”
Neronya expressed hope that Flanagan would use this time for self-reflection, suggesting that even in our worst moments, growth is possible. “I believe that, in the long run, our worst moments can inspire us to become better people,” he added.
Flanagan has opted not to contest her charges, according to reports. She received a six-month agreement which, if successfully adhered to, could lead to her case being dismissed.
Her attorney, Kevin Hagan, chose not to provide any comments. Neronya clarified that Flanagan’s claim regarding police protocol for turning off cameras was inaccurate.
“She’s humiliated,” Neronya remarked previously, emphasizing the broader impact of her actions. “I had no issues like this while I was Attorney General.” He noted that Flanagan’s conduct has affected her colleagues as well.
As of now, Neronya’s office has not offered additional remarks on the matter.
