UPDATED: O’Donnell Out as Head of RI State Police
Friday, September 09, 2016
Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) released the following statement in response to Colonel Steven O’Donnell’s announcement that he will retire as Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Commissioner of the Rhode Island Department of Public Safety.
Langevin and O'Donnell have worked together for years.
“Colonel O’Donnell has dedicated his life to public service, and to public safety, in particular. I have always admired and respected him, and I cannot express the depth of my gratitude to the Colonel for all that he has done to make Rhode Island a safer place for all of us. His departure from the State Police is a loss for law enforcement and for Rhode Island as a whole.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“From his time as a correctional officer and his service as a patrolman with the North Kingstown Police Department, to his work as a United States Marshal and his long and decorated career with the Rhode Island State Police, culminating in his role as Superintendent, Colonel O’Donnell has been tirelessly committed to his pledge to serve and protect. He became known for his fearless undercover work to take on organized crime, and more recently has carved a reputation as a leader in fighting cybercrime. He has been an exemplary law enforcement officer and a leader in our community, and I wish him the very best in his retirement.”
Colonel Steven O'Donnell
O'Donnell has served over 30 years in law enforcement, including more than five as Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police.
"I appreciate the opportunity I've had to serve the people of Rhode Island and lead the State Police. Law enforcement plays a vital role in strengthening the state and I look forward to contributing to Rhode Island's strong future in new ways. I'm thankful for the strong partnership I've had with Governor Raimondo," said Col. O'Donnell.
Governor Gina Raimondo added, "I am deeply thankful to Col. O'Donnell for his years of distinguished service to the state. He has made great sacrifices and committed his professional life to law enforcement and public safety."
Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Barry will serve as Acting Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police as well as the Acting Director of the Department of Public Safety while the search is underway for permanent replacement.
"I'm also appreciative that Lt. Col. Barry has agreed to serve as ActingSuperintendent while we conduct a search for a permanent Superintendent," said Raimondo.
O'Donnell joined the Rhode Island State Police in 1986.
