Col. Steven O’Donnell set to step down today

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

Providence, R.I. — After more than three decades in law enforcement, the superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police is set to step down Friday.

Colonel Steven O’Donnell announced his retirement earlier this month saying it is time for a change.

O’Donnell says it was not any easy decision whatsoever, but after speaking with his family, he decided it was time to step away.

Friday marks Colonel Steven O’Donnell’s final day with Rhode Island State Police.

O’Donnell has served as the State Police Superintendent for the last five years and prior to that, he spent years working under cover with the mafia during the patriarch crime years.

Looking back, he says his work with state police has been his biggest accomplishment.

“I’m a young man that grew up in Providence. I had a desire to be a state trooper, why? Because I met one once.”

“We’ve worked well together. It’s a hard job. He’s worked 100 hours 6 days a week for almost 6 years now. He’s done an incredible job and he’s earned it. It’s time to retire,” said Governor Raimondo.

Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Barry will take over for O’Donnell until a permanent replacement is found.

Governor Raimondo said she will conduct a nationwide search to find the most qualified candidate for the job.

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