Providence Police Sgt. Hanley Found Guilty of Assault
Thursday, March 18, 2021
Providence police officer Sergeant Joseph Hanley was found guilty in 6th Division District Court of simple assault, stemming from an April 19, 2020 incident during the arrest of an East Providence man.
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GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTFollowing the conclusion of the trial before District Court Judge Brian Goldman, he issued a finding that Hanley was guilty of one count of simple assault.
At today’s hearing, the court sentenced Hanley to one year of probation and ordered that he complete anger management classes. The court also issued a No Contact Order between Hanley and the victim. Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza had fired Hanley months ago.
"Our approach to public safety relies on trust between the police and the community and we are appalled by what this officer did," said Elorza on Thursday. "Upon seeing the video, we immediately recommended termination and then worked with the Attorney General's office to make sure the officer was prosecuted. We hope this verdict helps bring justice to the victim and, as we move forward, we will remain focused on continuing to building trust between the police and our residents."
The video of the incident was provided to GoLocal in November by then-PERA Director Jose Batista -- after he said the PERA board had voted not to release it.
“I don’t think it’s an issue,” said Batista of his decision at the time. “Part of my grounds [for release] is that it’s a public record.”
Batista was fired for releasing the video. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha repeatedly refused to release the video of the assault.
Prosecutors for the State recommended to the court that Sgt. Hanley be sentenced to one year at the Adult Correctional Institutions (ACI) with 90 days to serve and the balance of the sentence suspended with probation, as well as 100 hours of community service and a no-contact order.
Judge Goldman found Hanley’s use of force in striking Rishod Gore was clearly excessive.
It was while Gore lay prone on the sidewalk with his arms in handcuffs behind his back that Sgt. Hanley repeatedly kicked and struck him in the head and torso areas.
Hanley gave notice to the court that he will appeal the verdict to the Rhode Island Superior Court.
