Rhode Island prosecutor arrested in viral video to be placed on unpaid leave

Devon Flanagan, a Rhode Island state prosecutor, will begin unpaid leave after her arrest for willful trespassing outside Clarke Cooke House in Newport. Body-worn camera footage from the police shows Flanagan, 34, arguing with officers and repeatedly asserting her title, which she claimed should influence their actions. During the confrontation, she warned an officer he would "regret this" as she was taken into custody. Flanagan's friend, Veronica Hannan, faced multiple charges, including disorderly conduct and resisting arrest, as the police responded to reports of an unwanted party. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha criticized Flanagan's behavior, noting it has embarrassed her and the department, and indicated that strong disciplinary action would follow.

Flanagan's annual salary is approximately $113,000, and she is scheduled for arraignment on August 27. The Attorney General's Office is reviewing the incident, which reportedly involved alcohol. This situation raises concerns about the conduct of public officials and the implications of their actions on community trust.