Providence Cop On Leave After Man Hurt In Demonstration

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Providence Police Department is investigating a police officer's use of force on a man during last week's violent overnight demonstrations. The officer was placed on leave, the department said.

Police provided few details on the June 1 encounter. They said the officer used "a less lethal device" and the man was taken to Rhode Island Hospital.

Police declined to identify the officer, who has been on the department for 13 years. The officer was placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation is conducted, per protocol.

Hundreds of people gathered at the Providence Place Mall the night of June 1. After forcing their way into the mall and looting several stores, the crowds were pushed out by police, Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare said. The crowds then spread throughout downtown, breaking windows, looting other stores and burning vehicles. In total, approximately 70 people were arrested and the Federal Bureau of Investigation is working with the state in the ongoing investigation, Gov. Gina Raimondo said Monday.

"Violence is never the answer, and we need collective action — one that is productive, not destruction of our small businesses, who have been impacted so much already and by putting others safety at risk," Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza said at the time.

Following the incident, several towns, including Providence, Cranston, Coventry and Warwick, implemented overnight curfews, which have since been lifted.

Read more:

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• Cranston Mayor Reinstates Overnight Curfew
• Aquidneck Island Prepares For Weekend Protests
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• Rhode Island Works To Make Protests Safer From Coronavirus
• After A High-Tension Night In Rhode Island, 'A Better Morning'