Providence police administration calls for firing of off-duty officer charged in abortion rally altercation

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Providence Police Department administration is recommending that the off-duty officer charged with simple assault in an abortion rally scuffle to be fired.

The department called for the termination of Officer Jeann Lugo in a release Tuesday.

The administration added Lugo is now facing internal charges for violating department regulations for: obedience to laws and rules, standard of conduct, courtesy, rules governing conduct and demeanor.

“Officer Lugo, your disturbing, egregious, assaultive and unprofessional behavior while off duty, has brought discredit to your name and has tarnished the proud reputation of the Providence Police Department,” wrote Providence Police Chief Col. Hugh Clements in notice to Lugo about his intentions to terminate the officer.

Providence police officials said Lugo remains suspended with pay.

Lugo’s attorney, Dan Griffin, responded to push to terminate Lugo, saying the officer expected more from the city.

“We are  shocked and extremely disappointed in the City’s decision today. To make this decision so hastily really flies in the face of due process and fair treatment.  It’s unclear if the State Police has even completed the entirety of its investigation, and yet the City has moved to terminate one of its own police officers — one with an unblemished record — just 72 hours after charges were brought,” said Griffin.

Lugo was charged with simple assault and disorderly conduct Saturday following a physical altercation Friday night at a pro-abortion rally at the State House.

A video has surfaced that appears to show Lugo, who was running as a Republican for state Senate District 29, punching Jennifer Rourke, a Democratic candidate for the same seat.

Rourke tweeted out Saturday that she was seeking to press charges against Lugo. He was charged by state police and turned himself in Saturday and was released.

A spokesperson for Rourke said she suffered a concussion and her symptoms have gotten worse over the last few days.

Following the charges, Lugo announced he was suspending his campaign.

Griffin released a statement Monday saying in part: “There is far more to what occurred regarding the incident than what is being reported.”

He added that Lugo has been a “tremendous” police officer and believes when all the facts are presented he will be exonerated.