By News Staff
news@abc6.com
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - A suspended Rhode Island police chief has been found guilty of stealing $714 from a stripper's pocketbook following a police chase in Pawtucket as the remnants of Hurricane Irene hit the region.
A Providence County Superior Court judge on Tuesday convicted North Providence police Col. John Whiting of larceny over $500 and solicitation to receive stolen goods.
Prosecutors said Whiting took the money because he was upset and felt disrespected by the occupants of the stripper's SUV, who led him on a chase from North Providence into Pawtucket. A Pawtucket police officer testified Whiting confessed to stealing, and gave him the money with instructions to spend it in Las Vegas.
The 58-year-old Whiting denied stealing, saying he seized the money as evidence.
His lawyer says he's considering an appeal.
Sentencing is scheduled Sept. 14.
