Ex-State Rep. John Carnevale pleads no contest to perjury

By: Rebecca Turco

Email: rturco@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Former State Representative John Carnevale, who was trying his hand at another run in office, took a plea deal in a years-long legal battle over where he lived.

Carnevale pleaded no contest to one count of perjury over allegations he represented residents in Providence while actually living in Johnston. "Considering the uncertainties of trial – what could happen, what might happen – he made a decision this past week to resolve the case," said William Dimitri, Carnevale’s lead attorney, outside court.

Prosecutors say had the case gone to trial, they were prepared to prove Carnevale lied to the Providence Board of Canvassers three times under oath during a July 2016 hearing over his residency.

Per the plea deal, the State dropped Carnevale’s two other counts of perjury and one count of filing a false document. He was sentenced to five years, with nine months to serve on home confinement and the rest suspended on probation. The state had recommended jail time.

"The lesson to be learned is a very simple one – you have to tell the truth," said John Marion, the executive director of government watchdog group Common Cause Rhode Island. "[Carnevale] tried to deceive the voters of his district and now he’s being punished for it."

Carnevale’s name will be removed from the primary ballot, per state law, said Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea. He won’t be allowed to run for at least three years after his sentence is up.

Carnevale is due back in court August 22 for his sentence to be imposed. In the meantime, the Department of Corrections will confirm whether he is eligible for home confinement – which he is expected to be.

© WLNE-TV 2018