Joint Statement regarding Officer Lugo

Providence police officer, Jeann Lugo, who was seen on video striking a political opponent at a State House rally last year has escaped termination.

The department learned Tuesday that the LEOBOR voted unanimously to overturn the Providence Police Department’s efforts to fire Officer Lugo, but decided to suspend Lugo for 10 days.

The following statement can be attributed to Mayor Brett P. Smiley and Colonel Oscar L. Perez regarding the recent Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights Decision:

The Administration asked for termination because it is our expectation that Providence Police conduct themselves at the highest professional standards and that they constantly work to build trust with the communities they serve. Officer Lugo’s actions directly contradict our values and the standards we expect our officers to adhere while on and off duty. In accordance with the LEOBOR, the administrative charges for termination were presented to a panel committee who determined that Officer Lugo would serve 10 days suspension.