Rhode Island Prosecutor Placed on Unpaid Leave

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Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan, who was arrested on Aug. 14, will begin an unpaid leave starting Monday, officials confirmed. The Attorney General’s office is reviewing her employment status, though no final decision has been announced.

Flanagan was detained outside the Clarke Cooke House restaurant in Newport after failing to comply with police orders. Video footage shows her repeatedly asserting her position, telling officers, “I’m an AG! I’m an AG!” and warning, “You’re going to regret this,” as she was escorted into a police cruiser.

During the incident, Flanagan also requested that officers turn off their body cameras, claiming it was required by law. The Attorney General’s office has stated that this claim is incorrect.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha described Flanagan’s conduct as “inexcusable behavior” that has brought embarrassment to his office. He noted that her actions would likely result in “strong, strong sanctions.”

“It’s just really hard to find and keep capable lawyers, and so I have to think carefully about this one. But no question there will be a strong, strong sanction here,” Neronha told WPRO Radio.

While Neronha suggested Flanagan may have been under the influence of alcohol at the time, he emphasized that this does not excuse her behavior. He also issued an apology to the Newport Police Department for the incident.

Officials have not provided a timeline for how long Flanagan will remain on unpaid leave. The AG’s office continues to investigate the matter, reviewing both the arrest and Flanagan’s conduct.

The arrest has attracted significant attention due to Flanagan’s attempt to use her position as a state prosecutor during her detainment. Authorities are treating the matter with seriousness, ensuring that proper disciplinary measures will be determined based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.

Flanagan’s case highlights the accountability of public officials, reinforcing that legal positions do not exempt individuals from following the law.