Information
Click on a title below to see an expanded explanation of the subject.
Background Checks/Fingerprints
AND FINGERPRINTING
TOWN RESIDENTS ONLY
As of July 1, 2007 the charge for fingerprinting will be $36.00
Fingerprinting is performed on Tuesdays only between 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM & 5:00 PM– 6:00 PM. (Other times may be added at the discretion of the on - duty detective.) All public and private school employees* must pay $36.00 in check form made out to the “Town of North Providence”.
There is no charge for background checks for the following:
• Foster Parents
• Child/Day Care
• Mental Health Employment
• Nursery/Preschool
• Campus Security
• Residential Care Facility
If you do not fall into any of the above categories you will also need to pay $36.00.
You MUST have the following with you at the time your fingerprints are taken:
1. Photo identification.
2. Proof you are a Town resident (driver’s license, state ID card, utility bill, etc.)
3. Complete address where results will be sent.
You will be required to pass through a metal detector prior to admission into the police station. Please leave any hand bag or back pack in your car or it will be thoroughly searched.
For their safety, young children are not allowed in the processing area. If they are old enough, they are welcome to wait for you in our lobby.
Background check results will be sent directly to your employer and a copy will be sent to your home.
BACKGROUND CHECKS AND FINGERPRINTING MAY BE CANCELLED AT ANY TIME AND WITHOUT NOTICE. THE OFFICERS PROVIDING THIS SERVICE ARE WORKING DETECTIVES AND ARE OFTEN NEEDED TO RESPOND TO CRIME SCENES.
Download the application form. It can be filled out on your computer and printed out. Don't forget to bring it in.
* Teachers working for a 501(C) not-for-profit educational facility are exempt from paying for a background check. You may need to bring proof of your employers IRS status. (RIGL §16-48.1-5)
** Convictions for murder, voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter, 1st /2nd/3rd degree sexual assault, assault on the elderly, felony assault, neglect/mistreatment/abuse of patients, burglary, 1st degree arson, robbery, felony drug offenses, larceny, felony banking law violations, assault with intent to commit: murder, robbery, rape, burglary, abominable and detestable crimes against nature. (RIGL §23-17-37)
For more information, contact the B.C.I. Detective at 233-1433, Ext. 174.
Records Requests
· The Public Records Officer can be reached at (401) 233-1433.
· The regular business hours of the Records Department are 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. If you come in after regular business hours, please complete the Public Records Request Form at the front desk and it will be given to the Public Records Officer the following day. A link to download the Public Records Request Form can be found at the end of this document.
· The North Providence Police Department may ask you for identification as its regular course of business. However, you are not required to provide identification nor will your right to access public records be dependent upon it.
· In order to ensure that you are provided with the public records you seek in an expeditious manner, we ask that you complete the Public Records Request Form located at the front desk.
· You may also obtain a handout at the front desk on the Access to Public Records Act, which summarizes the procedures and your rights to access public records.
· There are times when the public records you seek are not available at the time of your request. Please be advised that the Access to Public Records Act gives a public body ten (10) business days to respond. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
· If you feel you have been denied access to public records, you have the right to appeal to Police Chief Ernest Spaziano. If you are still not satisfied, you may file a complaint with the Department of Attorney General, located at 150 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903, or file suit in Superior Court.
· The North Providence Police Department is committed to providing you with public records in an expeditious and courteous manner.
NORTH PROVIDENCE POLICE DEPARTMENT ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS ACT R.I. GEN. LAWS SECTION 38-2-1 ET SEQ.
The North Providence Police Department is committed to providing the public with access to public records, while protecting from disclosure information about individuals maintained that would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. R.I. Gen. Laws, Section 38-2-1. The North Providence Police Department provides numerous public documents to the public, media and attorneys everyday in the ordinary course of business. However, for any person who does not desire to make an oral request, wishes to make a formal written request or the request needs clarification, please complete the written form.
Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws section 38-2-3(C.), the North Providence Police Department has established the following procedure regarding access to public records:
1. Please inform the officer at the front desk that you wish to make a request for public records. The Public Records Officer for the North Providence Police Department can be reached at telephone number 233-1433, extension 146. The hours for the Records department are 8:30AM to 4:00PM.
2. The Officer will provide with a form to complete, which lets this Department know the precise public documents you seek and assists us in processing your request in an expeditious manner.
3. If the public records are readily available, we will be more than happy to provide them. However, there are times and circumstances when the records will not be available at the time that you the request. If the records are not readily available, they can either be mailed to you or you can pick them up on a designated date. The Access to Public Records Act grants a public body ten (10) business days to respond to your request. R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-7(a). The Act further provides that “for good cause, this limit may be extended for a period not to exceed thirty (30) business days.” We thank you in advance for your understanding if it is necessary, for good cause, to request this extension. Improper release of certain information could compromise the civil rights or personal safety of your fellow citizens, and we must review documents to prevent such harm.
4. Cost. The Access to Public Records Act gives you the opportunity to view and/or copy public records. The cost per copied page of written public documents will be $00.15 (fifteen cents) for documents that can be copied on common business or legal size paper. You may elect to obtain public records in any or all media in which we are capable of providing them. The Act permits a reasonable charge for search and retrieval of documents. The hourly cost for a search and retrieval shall not exceed fifteen ($15.00) per hour, with no charge for the fist hour. We would be more than happy to provide you with an estimate. Upon a request, we will provide a detailed itemization of the cost charged for search and retrieval.
5. Public Records. A “public record” is defined as “documents, papers,...or other material regardless of physical form or characteristics made or received pursuant to law or ordinance or in connection with the transaction of official business by any agency.” Specifically with respect to police records, in addition to other records maintained by this Department that constitute “public records”, the Access to Public Records Act deems public “records relating to the management and direction of law enforcement agency and records or reports reflecting the initial arrest of an adult and the charge or charges brought against an adult.” R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-2(4)(i.)(D).
6. Redaction. Although a document may constitute a public record, there may be some information contained on the document that may be redacted/deleted as it is exempt from disclosure under R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-2. In Direct Action for Rights and Equality v. Gannon, 713 A.2d 218 (R.I. 1998) and The Rake v. Gorodetsky, 452 A.2d 1144 (R.I. 1982), the Rhode Island Supreme Court held that final reports on civilian complaints of police brutality were subject to disclosure in redacted form. In addition, the Rhode Island Supreme Court has stated that “in passing the APRA, the General Assembly intended to limit access to certain documents in order to avoid disclosure of confidential information to protect individuals from invasion of their privacy.” Providence Journal Company v. Kane, 577 A2d. 661, 663 (R.I. 1990). “There is no public interest to be weighed in disclosure of nonpublic records.” Id. A “balancing of interest arises only after a record has first been determined to be a public record.” Id.
7. Exemptions. The Access to Public Records Act exempts some records from public exposure. See, R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-2(4). The following are some explanations as to why a document or part thereof may be exempt from disclosure:
(A)(I)...all personal or medical information relating to medical or psychological facts... R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-2(4)(i)(A)(I);
(C)... records of juvenile proceedings before the family court.
(D) All records maintained by law enforcement agencies for criminal law enforcement and all records relating to the detection and investigation of crime, including those maintained on any individual or compiled in the course of a criminal investigation by any law enforcement agency. Provided, however, such records shall not be deemed public only to the extent that the disclosure of the records or information may (a) reasonably be expected to interfere with investigations of criminal activity or with enforcement proceedings, (b) would deprive a person of a right to a fair trial or an impartial adjudication, (d) could reasonably be expected to disclose the identity of a confidential source, including a state, local or foreign agency or authority, or private institution which furnished information on a confidential basis, or the information furnished by a confidential source, (e) would disclose techniques and procedures for law enforcement or prosecutions, or would disclose guidelines for law enforcement investigations or prosecutions or (f) could reasonably be expected to endanger the life or physical safety of any individual.
(S) Records, reports, opinions, information, and statements required to be kept confidential by federal law or regulation or state rule of court, law or regulation. (i.e. information regarding juveniles, etc.)
Please be advised that this is not a complete list of documents that the Act exempts from disclosure. For a full list see R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-2.
8. Appeal of Denial. Any person or entity denied the right to inspect a record of a public body by the Public Records Officer may petition the chief administrative officer of that Public Body for review of the determinations made by his or her subordinates. Any petitions from a denial should be made to Chief Ernest Spaziano. A final determination whether or not to allow public inspection will be made within ten (10) business days after the submission of the review petition. R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-8.
9. Complaint to the Attorney General. If the chief administrative officer determined that the record is not subject to public inspection, the person or entity seeking disclosure may file a complaint with the Attorney General, 150 South Main Street, Providence, R.I. 02903, telephone number 274-4400, or may retain private counsel for the purposes of instituting proceedings for injunctive or declaratory relief in the Superior Court of the county where the record is maintained. The Act provides that “the court shall impose a civil fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1000) against a public body or official found to have committed a knowing and willful violation of this chapter, and shall award reasonable attorney fees and cost to the prevailing plaintiff. The Court shall further order a public body found to have wrongfully denied access to provide the public records at no cost to the prevailing party; provided further, that in the event that the court, having found in favor of the defendant, finds further that the plaintiff’s case lacked a grounding in fact or in existing law or in good faith argument for the extension modification, or reversal of existing law, the court may award attorneys fees and costs to the prevailing defendant.” R.I. Gen. Laws Section 38-2-8(d).
We hope this message has been of assistance
The Records Request form can be accessed by clicking on the following link: Records Request
The above form must be submitted to the Police Department. The form can be submitted in person or by mail at the above address.
You will need Acrobat reader which can be obtained form: http://www.adobe.com
VIN Checks
The inspection of Vehicle Identification Numbers is conducted in the rear of 1270 Mineral Spring Ave. (on Verdi St.) (the building that houses Oki's Japanese Steak House) Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 1:00 pm. Please report to the far right door.
No appointment is necessary. Signs are posted on Mineral Spring Ave. directing drivers to the location. Telephone 401-728-7100 for further information.
A Google Map of the location is available here.
View Larger Map
Citizen Commendation and Complaint Procedure
Citizen Commendation and Complaint Procedure
We are committed to providing a safe and orderly environment in our Town through professionalism, dedication, and active partnerships with the community, and concern for individual dignity.
This information has been prepared to acquaint you with the operation of the North Providence Police Department citizen commendation and complaint process.
The mission of the department is really quite simple – to earn and protect the public trust.
The men and women of the department understand that our greatest resource and asset is the support and assistance given by the community we serve. Naturally, this relationship, or “partnership” as we think of it, with the citizens of North Providence is something we must constantly strive to protect. This is a responsibility shared by every member of the department and it is the primary task of the citizen complaint process.
Here are some of the most common questions and concerns expressed by the public about the citizen’s commendation and complaint process.
COMMENDATIONS
When a commendation is received verbally, it will be documented and forwarded through the chain of command to the Chief of Police. Letters of commendation from citizens are posted for all department employees to view. The employees of the North Providence Police Dept. appreciate the effort and consideration of concerned citizens who take the time to commend our employees.
HOW DO I MAKE A COMPLAINT?
Complaints will be accepted from any source and may be made anonymously, in person, by mail or facsimile (fax), or by telephone. While the department does accept anonymous complaints, an investigation generally cannot proceed based solely on anonymous uncorroborated information, unless the allegation can be confirmed by an independent source. Preferably, complaints should be made in person by the individual directly concerned in the allegation against the employee. The department accepts complaints made against police officers, civilian employees, and other workers and agents of the department. A citizen can initially speak to any supervisor, or the Professional Standards Unit, about an allegation or the complaint process, but the citizen will be referred to the immediate supervisor or the Professional Standards Unit, depending upon the seriousness of the allegation. As part of the investigation, you may be asked to give a sworn statement. An appointment will be made for you, and you are free to bring with you anyone of your choosing. You will be treated courteously and need not fear any type of intimidation or other improper behavior. When making a complaint, simply relate the facts as you know them; don’t attempt to add to or embellish your complaint, and be mindful that you will be asked specific questions regarding factual information
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I MAKE A COMPLAINT?
If the complaint is for a serious matter, such as unnecessary or excessive use of force, false arrest or violation of a specific criminal statute, the Professional Standards Unit will investigate the complaint. Less serious matters, such as rudeness, discourtesy, and minor infractions of the rules, regulations, policies or procedures will be investigated by the employee’s immediate supervisor. Investigators then forward the findings to the Chief of Police. Based on the results, the complaint can either be sustained or not sustained. If sustained, the Chief of Police will make the final recommendation to the Director of Public Safety for the amount and type of sanction to be imposed upon the employee. Sanctions may include retraining, counseling, reprimand, suspension without pay, transfer, reassignment, demotion, and/or dismissal. All decisions involving disciplinary action will be made in conjunction with the Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights
.
IS SOMETHING DONE ON ALL COMPLAINTS?
Yes. All complaints are initially documented on a Citizen Complaint Form and thoroughly examined and investigated consistent with departmental policy and the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights.
WHAT DOES THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT DO?
The Professional Standards Unit has the responsibility of investigating:
· Allegations of unnecessary force used by a member of the department in the performance of duty.
· Any allegation of criminal conduct by a member of the department.
· Allegations of false arrest.
· Allegations of serious misconduct or misbehavior.
TO WHOM DOES THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT REPORT TO?
Personnel assigned to the Professional Standards Unit report directly to the Chief of Police.
WHAT HAPPENDS AFTER AN INVESTIGATION IS COMPLETED?
After your complaint has been investigated, you will be notified of the results by the investigating officer. If you are dissatisfied with the results of the investigation, or the specific finding, you may ask that another agency review the investigation. Depending on the type of allegation, you will be informed by our Professional Standards Unit of the most appropriate agency for you to contact. You should also know that making a complaint in no way limits your ability or right to pursue any other complaint forums if you feel that you have been wronged. Every complaint that involves a possible violation of a law is forwarded to the Attorney General’s Department for review.
WHAT ABOUT OTHER COMPLAINTS SUCH AS DISCOURTESY OR POOR SERVICE?
These complaints are investigated by the employee’s immediate supervisor and then forwarded to the Professional Standards Unit for recording, review, and filing.
WHAT RIGHTS DO POLICE OFFICERS AND OTHER EMPLOYEES HAVE WHEN A COMPLAINT IS MADE AGAINST THEM?
All police employees are protected under their respective labor agreements and any applicable state and Federal statutes. Additionally, police officers are also protected under the Law Enforcement Officer’s Bill of Rights. These provisions provide that employees shall not be subjected to harassment, intimidation, threats from supervisors, or unreasonable periods of interrogation. They also have a right to counsel or union representation during the investigation.
IS THERE ANY RISK TO ME WHEN I MAKE A COMPLAINT AGAINST A POLICE EMPLOYEE?
No, unless you deliberately make a false complaint against an officer. In that case, you may be prosecuted criminally and/or be held civilly liable.
WILL THE POLICE REALLY BE IMPARTIAL WHEN THEY INESTIGATE THEIR OWN OFFICERS OR EMPLOYEES?
Yes, the question goes right to the heart of what professional policing is all about. We strive to ensure quality performance from all our officers and employees who represent our department and the Town of North Providence. We want the public to know that we do not tolerate misconduct. Even perceived tolerance of employee misconduct will lead to a breakdown of the public trust which would adversely effect the ability of the police department to function properly.
DOES NORTH PROVIDENCE GET MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT ITS POLICE OFFICERS?
No. Our officers respond to about 30,000 calls for service each year, handle over 60,000 telephone calls, and experience thousands of other service-related interactions between the public and the department’s employees. Less than one-half of one percent result in complaints regarding employee’s conduct and behavior.
The task of policing today’s society is demanding and challenging. The North Providence Police Department will continue to demand the highest standards from its employees. Realizing that it is not possible to enforce the rules of society without incurring some animosity, we will endeavor to protect our employees from unwarranted and false complaints, and protect our citizens from unwarranted and inappropriate mistreatment. Through this entire process, we will work to maintain your trust and support and develop a real working partnership with our community.
North Providence Police Department
Professional Standards Unit
1967 Mineral Spring Avenue
North Providence, RI 02904
(401) 233-1433 Ext. 114
Confidential Fax (401) 233-1425
The Commendation/Complaint form can be accessed by clicking on the following link: Commendation and Compliant Form
The above form must be submitted to the Police Department. The form can be submitted in person, by mail at the above address, or by Fax at the above number.
You will need Acrobat reader which can be obtained form: http://www.adobe.com
Burglar Alarms
If an officer is sent to your premises for a burglar alarm, and upon checking the perimeter it is determined that your alarm system generated a false alarm, the officer will leave a yellow “False Alarm Notification” on the handle of your entrance door.
This “False Alarm Notification” contains information about when the alarm was activated, and may contain comments for improving security at your premises.
If you have any questions or would like further information about burglar alarms, please contact the North Providence Police Department at 233-1433 between the hours of 8:00AM and 3:30PM, Monday through Friday.
Helpful Hints to Reduce False Alarms
• Install a system that is repairable or select an alarm company that provides quick service.
• Train all operators of the system to ensure that they are thoroughly familiar with it and that they are capable of using it.
• Have a user’s manual readily available to authorized persons.
• Check the system regularly to determine if there is damage to it or if it needs to be repaired, i.e.: (battery, motion detector, magnetic switches, etc.)
• Select designated responsible persons who reside or work nearby to reset the system.
Emergency Notification Service
To register for this service, please contact the Community Policing Division (233-1433), Monday – Friday, 8:30AM to 3:00PM at 233-1433 and ask to be placed on the Emergency Contact list.
Useful Downloadable Forms in Adobe Acrobat Format
Forms
All documents are in Adobe PDF format. We do not provide electronic submission of forms.
Documents to complete and bring to the Police Station
Records Request: Use if requesting police reports.
Background Check Application: Use if requesting a national (FBI) background check.
Alzheimers Alert : Use if you want to have a loved ones information on file with us.
Property Sheet: Use if you need to list items stolen from you in an already reported crime.
Games of Chance Application: For charitable organizations
Vacation Notification: Use if you would like to notify the police when you are going on vacation.
For your information:
Check Complaints: Explains the departments "bad check" procedure.
Child car seat chart: The proper way to secure a child in a vehicle.
ID Theft Affidavit: A place to list information needed by credit card companies, banks, etc.
RI Motor Vehicle TR-1 Form: Any DMV transaction will require this form.
State Accident Report: Complete for any accident with injuries or more than $1000 damage .
Employment Information
Employment Information
The North Providence Police Department is no longer accepting applications. Good luck to all those that applied.
- Career Service
Appointment as a Police Officer in North Providence offers men and women an exciting opportunity for a career in Law Enforcement. Officers are trained by the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy and the police department to perform all phases of police work, such as traffic enforcement, accident investigation, patrol methods, criminal investigation, juvenile operations, and community policing. The training offered by this police department is of the highest standards and it continues throughout the Officer's career. Promotions are determined by written examinations, oral examinations, and educational requirements, and are made from within the department. The members of the North Providence Police Department are represented by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) and have their wages, benefits, and conditions of employment specified in their bargaining agreement with the Town.
Position Description
A patrol officer shall be responsible for the efficient performance of required duties in conformance with the rules, regulations and polices of the department. Duties shall consist of, but are not necessarily limited to, a number of general police responsibilities necessary for the stability and safety of the community. A patrol officer is expected, at minimum, to:
• Identify criminal offenders and criminal activity, and where appropriate, apprehend offenders and participate in subsequent court proceedings.
• Reduce the opportunities for the commission of crime through various traditional as well as innovative preventive measures.
• Aid individuals who are in danger of physical harm.
• Facilitate the movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
• Identify problems that are potentially serious law enforcement or governmental issues and take appropriate action.
• Create and maintain a feeling of security in the community.
• Promote and preserve the peace, provide services to others as needed.
• Exercise authority consistent with the obligations imposed by the oath of office, and be accountable to superior officers.
• Must be able to act without direct supervision.
• Must be able to acquire and record pertinent information and notify relevant individuals.
• Must be able to adapt to various duties and any of several specific assignments requiring skill and ability learned on the job.
Minimum requirements:
- US citizen- natural born or naturalized.
- 21 years of age at time of application.
- Must possess an Associates Degree or 60 credits from an accredited college or university, preferably in the field of Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- All applicants must complete and pass all test requirements, such as;
- Physical agility test
- Written entrance exam(s)
- Oral interview(s)
- Drug screening test
- Background investigation
- Medical examination
- Psychological test
- Swim test (Police Academy entrance requirement - listed below)
Upon completing the above requirements, candidates may be offered conditional employment with the department. Applicants must then attend and successfully complete the course of study as prescribed by the Municipal Police Academy, and complete an in-service field training program. All candidates will then be required to successfully complete a probationary review period.
Summary Of Selection Of Process Candidates must pass each phase in order to go on to the next phase of the process. Prior to being allowed to take the Agility test you must present a physicians note indicating that you are physically and medically cleared to participate. 1. Physical Agility Test - Test Requirements Listed Below 2. Written Examination(s) 3. Oral Interview Board – Consists of three (3) to five (5) members of the North Providence Police Department. An additional oral interview may be conducted, as determined by the Chief of Police. 4. Background Investigation - A check of personal background and employment and a Criminal Record Check. 5. Psychological Examination - Administered by U.R.I. College of Continuing Education.
APPOINTMENTS
Employment lists resulting from examinations are in effect for one (1) year, unless sooner exhausted, but may be extended at the discretion of the Chief of Police.
Appointments are made conditional upon successfully passing a department physical examination including unannounced drug testing.
Applicants shall be classified as probationary members of the department effective upon their date of appointment to the department.
They shall remain on probation until twelve (12) months after the date of graduation from the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy, but not to exceed 24 months in total from their date of hire.
WAGES
The following wages are in effect.
PATROL OFFICERS
1st year of employment - an annual base salary of $42,665.54 (as of 07-01-07)
2nd year of employment - an annual base salary of $47,847.06 (as of 07-01-08)
HOW WILL PHYSICAL FITNESS BE MEASURED?
The physical fitness test battery consists of 5 basic tests. Each test is a scientifically valid test. The tests to be given are described as follows:
1. SIT AND REACH TEST This is a measure of the flexibility of the lower back and upper leg area. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving range of motion and is important in minimizing lower back problems. The test involves stretching out to touch the toes or beyond with extended arms from the sitting position. The score is in inches reached on a yardstick with 15 inches being at the toes.
2. 1 MINUTE SIT-UP TEST This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve the use of force and is an important area for maintaining good posture and minimizing lower back problems. The score is in the number of bent leg sit-ups performed in 1 minute.
3. 1 REPETITION MAXIMUM BENCH PRESS This is a maximum weight pushed from the bench press position and measures the amount of force the upper body can generate. It is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. The score is a ratio of weight pushed divided by body weight.
4. 1.5 MILE RUN
This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system's capability to transport oxygen. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds.
5. 300 METER RUN
This timed run is an anaerobic assessment. It is measured in seconds and tenths of a second.
MINIMAL PHYSICAL FITNESS PERFORMANCE
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS CHART
TEST | MALE AGE | FEMALE AGE | |||||||
| 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | 20-29 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | ||
| 300 METER RUN | 59.0 | 58.9 | 72.0 | 83.2 | 71.0 | 79.0 | 94.0 | N/A | |
| SIT & REACH | 16.5 | 15.5 | 14.3 | 13.3 | 19.3 | 18.3 | 17.3 | 16.8 | |
| 1 MINUTE SIT UP | 38.0 | 35.0 | 29.0 | 24.0 | 32.0 | 25.0 | 20.0 | 14.0 | |
| MAX BENCH PRESS RATIO | .99 | .88 | .80 | .71 | .59 | .53 | .50 | .44 | |
| 1.5 MILE RUN | 12:29 | 12:53 | 13:50 | 15:14 | 15:05 | 15:56 | 17:11 | 19:10 |
POLICE ACADEMY BASIC WATER RESCUE PROGRAM
All recruits must successfully swim 200 yards continuously using 100 yards of an approach stroke (crawl or breaststroke) and 100 yards of a tow stroke (sidestroke or elementary backstroke); tread water for 10 minutes; surface dive to a depth of 7 to 12 feet to retrieve a 40 lb. object and swim a distance of 30 feet or 5 body lengths underwater. The Academy stresses this is not a learn to swim program.
The Town of North Providence is an Equal Opportunity Employer encouraging women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities to apply. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital, or veteran status.
Department History
A Brief History of the Police Department of
The Town of North Providence, R.I.
The Town of North Providence was originally part of the Town of Providence, which was first settled in 1636. During the mid 1700’s, the northern part of Providence was separated as a new town named North Providence, and was later incorporated on June 13,1765.
North Providence as originally settled was a large town, encompassing all of what today is known as North Providence, as well as all of the City of Pawtucket to the Blackstone/Seekonk River, and most of the City of Providence, north of the current R.I. State House.
From 1765 to 1874, Pawtucket was a village in North Providence, as was Centredale, Allendale, Fruit Hill, Lymans Mill (Lymansville), Manton, Dyerville, Mt. Pleasant and others. During this time, the Town Council would assemble in the village of Pawtucket, which was the population center during this era.
In June of 1874, a large portion of North Providence was annexed and became Pawtucket, as was another section of the town that was taken over by the City of Providence. (Portions of North Providence were also annexed and became part of the City of Providence in 1767 and 1873).
Records indicate the following:
In June of 1867, the Town Council, assembled in the village of Pawtucket, appointed day and night constables, (not to exceed 8). Up to this point in time, no records exist of any organized patrol force, but there is mention of a bridewell (town jail) and Town Sergeant as far back as June 23, 1815, as noted in the Acts and Laws of the State of Rhode Island. In 1871, Marcus M. Cowing was elected Chief of Police by the Town Council, as were 21 constables and a police sergeant. In 1872, Hiram L. Howard was elected Chief of Police, and only 13 constables were appointed, as well as several Sergeants who were apparently district supervisors, one for each area of the Town. In 1873, Mr. Cowing was again elected Chief of Police, but resigned a few days later and was replaced by Hiram Howard. Also appointed were 24 patrolmen and several Sergeants.
In June of 1874, the Pawtucket section of Town was annexed and became aseparate municipality. The Town Council for North Providence now moved and assembled in Centredale, and at times in Woodville (Mineral Spring Ave. & Douglas Ave.). As a note for comparison, the population of North Providence in 1870 was 20,495. The 1880 census for North Providence (post annexation) was 1,467.
A “New” North Providence
The first Chief of Police, or Town Sergeant as it was then known, was Henry F. Brown, who was appointed at the first Town Council meeting held in the separated (post 1874) town on June 8, 1874. At this first meeting, several new constables were elected and one was terminated. On June 22, 1874, the first Town Ordinance was enacted establishing rules and regulations for the Town Sergeant and constables, and on June 24, 1874 additional rules and regulations were enacted.
It appears that during these early days, the Town Sergeant and constables were elected to office by the Town Council. Each councilman had the authority to appoint a constable, and such constables were replaced or added at the Town Councils discretion. This practice continued until 1954, when the Town Council authorized a “permanent” police force.
The following changes were made during the years:
June 14, 1875 John Kinnecom replaces Henry F. Brown as Town Sergeant
April 3, 1876 John Kinnecom resigns and is replaced by James V. Corey as Town Sergeant.
June 10, 1878 Henry F. Brown replaces James V. Corey as Town Sergeant
June 10, 1882 Randall Tallman replaces Henry F. Brown as Town Sergeant
June 21, 1886 Sanford E. Kinnecom, son of John Kinnecom replaces Henry F. Brown as Town Sergeant
June 13, 1887 Randall M. Tallman replaces Sanford E. Kinnecom as Town Sergeant
June 11, 1888 Sanford E. Kinnecom replaces Randall M. Tallman as Town Sergeant and the term "Chief of Police" is used.
November 9, 1903 George P. Willis appointed Chief of Police
November 15, 1903 George H. Hill appointed Deputy Chief.
January 7, 1924 James A. McDonald appointed Deputy Chief
January 5, 1925 Lawrence J. Labossinnere appointed Deputy Chief
January 7, 1935 William J. Donovan appointed Chief of Police. John Parella appointed Deputy Chief
January 4, 1937 The position of Deputy Chief is abolished and a “Day” and a “Night” commander are established. In 1941, this position was reestablished when Alfred Bissonnette is appointed to the position of Deputy.
January 2, 1947 Antonio Caranci appointed Chief of Police when the Republican Party sweeps back into power. On this same date, Albert Brousseau is appointed Deputy.
January 3, 1949 William J. Donovan re-appointed Chief of Police
January 12, 1954 The Town Council authorizes a “permanent” police force. Prior to this time, officers in the department were appointed by members of the Town Council. In the event a new person was elected to the council, that new council member could appoint a new officer to replace the officer appointed by the previous council member. This change resulted in making officers in this sense “permanent” as they could not be replaced at the whim of council members.
December 5, 1960 Jack DiStefano appointed Chief of Police
March 1, 1967 Joseph Bonaventura appointed Chief of Police
May 19, 1971 John T. Leyden appointed Chief of Police
1974 The Police Department moves from the lower level at Town Hall on Smith St. to the Police-Fire Complex at 1967 Mineral Spring Ave. This is the third known location of the Police Department, the first being a brick addition located at the rear of the original Town Hall located at the corner of Mineral Spring Ave. and the Centredale By-Pass (since demolished).
March 7, 1979 Ernest E. Ricci appointed Chief of Police
April 12, 1980 Chief Ricci re-organizes the department and the position of Chief of Police is also now the rank of Colonel.
November 2, 1984 The Police Dept. receives National Accreditation from C.A.L.E.A., the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. The department is the 1st in the northeast, the fourth overall in the United States.
August 1, 1986 Donald Oliver appointed Chief of Police
November 2, 1990 The department is re-accredited by C.A.L.E.A.
1989-1994 Joseph F. Dicenzo appointed as Acting Chief of Police in 1989, then to Chief of Police in 1990.
Note: In late 1994, Joseph F. Dicenzo was replaced, and for several months an “Acting Chief” was appointed from an outside agency.
1995-2001 William V. Devine Chief of Police
2001-2008 Ernest C. Spaziano Chief of Police
North Providence Police Department 2007
Today, the North Providence Police Department is a professional police organization employing 71 full time sworn Police Officers and 25 non sworn civilian personnel. The department utilizes the latest technological advancements in crime fighting and criminal investigations and has earned numerous honors and achievements, including national accreditation in 1984 (fourth in the nation) from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (C.A.L.E.A.). Currently, the department serves a population of approximately 33,500 residents within its 5.67 square mile land area.
In 2005, members of the Police Department responded to 27,946 calls for service, and made a total of 1,945 arrests. The Patrol and Traffic Division investigated 1,455 motor vehicle accidents.
In 2006, members of the Police Department responded to 28,575 calls for service, and made a total of 1,826 arrests. The Patrol and Traffic Division investigated 1,285 motor vehicle accidents.
In 2007, members of the Police Department responded to 29,381 calls for service, and made a total of 1,581 arrests. The Patrol and Traffic Division investigated 1,229 motor vehicle accidents.