Woonsocket Calls Off Overnight Curfew

WOONSOCKET, RI — Less than 24 hours after instituting an overnight curfew for all residents, except for emergency workers, those worshiping and media until further notice, Woonsocket Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt announced Thursday afternoon she was rescinding the order after two nights of relative calm in the city.

Baldelli-Hunt said on Wednesday that the curfew was put in place at the request of the city's police and public safety departments after social media threats were made against police and local businesses on Tuesday. But, less than a day later, the mayor reversed course on extending the curfew.

"Public Safety Measures took extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of our residents, visitors and property," Baldelli-Hunt said. "I thank all our residents and proprietors for their understanding throughout the last several days where we have witnessed turbulent behavior in nearby communities and threats against the city of Woonsocket."

Baldelli-Hunt insisted the "extraordinary measures" were warranted.

"I believe we took necessary precautions to keep our communities safe," she said.

Public Safety Director Eugene Jalette said: "We continue to work daily with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners analyzing data and monitoring threat assessments. Protecting our citizens and their property is paramount."

Anyone who sees anything suspicious is asked to call police at 401-766-1212. Callers can remain anonymous.

Related Patch Content: Woonsocket Imposes Nightly Curfew Until Further Notice