RIPCA clarifies body camera policy after arrest of Rhode Island special assistant attorney general

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association has released a statement on the state’s body-worn camera policy following the arrest of a Rhode Island special assistant attorney general. 

Devon Flanagan, a special assistant attorney general with Attorney General Peter Neronha’s office, was arrested after staff at Clarke Cook House restaurant asked her and her friend to leave 13 times, and Flanagan and her friend allegedly refused.

During the arrest, Flanagan was seen on video telling officers they had to turn off their cameras if she asked.

RIPCA President Thomas Oates said on Wednesday that only victims and witnesses can request the camera be turned off, not suspects.

Oates added that all departments had to sign onto the policy to get funding for the cameras.

The Attorney General’s office said it is reviewing the incident.

A spokesperson told ABC6 news that Flanagan has worked for the office for seven years and is part of the Appellate Unit of the Criminal Division.