Oscar Perez sworn in as Providence’s 39th police chief

March 25, 2023 1:48 pm

Alex Dube,

The Providence Police Department shared this photo of Mayor Smiley swearing in Oscar Perez as chief of police.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Providence Police Department said they’re proud to honor their new chief after he was sworn in Friday.

Friends, family and fellow officers gathered to watch as Col. Oscar Perez be sworn in as the city of Providence’s 39th police chief.

Providence police said in a post to social media, “With his proven expertise, we look forward to continuing our commitment to public safety and enhancing the quality of life throughout our community.”

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced Perez would fill the role last month. He is the first Latino to lead the state’s largest municipal police department.

He replaced Col. Hugh Clements who left the post after 38 years for a job in Washington D.C.