Raimondo Appoints New Director Of Rhode Island E-911

Rhode Island's emergency 911 system has a new man at its helm. On Wednesday, Governor Gina Riamondo announced that she appointed J. David Smith to the position of Associate Director of the Rhode Island E-911 Uniform Emergency Telephone System.

"Significant improvements have been made to our E-911 system in recent months, including the hiring of new personnel, the addition of Text-to-911 service and a commitment to added training for 911 operators," Gor. Raimondo said. "I’m pleased to have someone with David’s experience leading our efforts going forward."

Smith has an extensive background in public safety, previously serving as the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and the chief of police in both Westerly and Narragansett. Currently, he is the Chairman of the Administration of Justice Program and the Graduate Program Director at Salve Regina University in Newport. His appointment comes at the recommendation of Rhode Island State Police Colonel James Manni.

"Chief Smith is a dedicated public servant with more than 30 years of distinguished service to our state," Manni said. "His public safety experience, education, leadership skills and continued commitment to the people of Rhode Island make him the ideal candidate for this position."

Smith is expected to join the department on September 3, and will oversee the roll-out of a new emergency medical training program for dispatchers.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to return to public service as the Associate Director of the E-911 system. This is an essential, lifesaving service, and I look forward to ensuring that all Rhode Islanders have the utmost confidence in our system," Smith said.

Smith earned his bachelor's degree from the FBI National Academy in 1999 and later a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in humanities from Salve Regina.