Providence police sergeant Hanley back on leave after RI judge ruling

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A Superior Court judge ruled yesterday that a Providence police officer who assaulted a handcuffed man in 2020 will remain on administrative leave.

That’s according to a court administrator.

Back in 2020 Sergeant Joseph Hanley was filmed beating and kicking Rishod Gore.

Hanley pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor simple assault charge in 2024.

In June, a law enforcement officers bill of rights board voted two-to-one to reinstate Hanley, giving him 45 days without pay as his punishment.

That decision received pushback from many, including Providence Police chief Colonel Oscar Perez, who advocated for his firing.

After the judge’s decision, Hanley will remain on leave until an administrative appeal is decided.