South Kingstown police chief placed on probation
by: Leah Crowley
SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — South Kingstown Police Chief Matthew Moynihan has been placed on a one-year probation.
Town manager James Manni told 12 News the department’s loss of accreditation was a factor in the decision.
“The loss of accreditation is unfortunate. Chief Moynihan was in place for approximately the last quarter of the accreditation process and no doubt felt confident that the process was running smoothly, as it had over the years prior to him coming on board,” he explained. “[Moynihan] is, in the end, responsible.”
Independent RI reported that the decision was also made in part due to a no-confidence vote with the local police union.
Moynihan will be on probation until April 22, 2025.
Manni said he believes Moynihan will be able to rectify the situation and stressed that the community does not need to be concerned.
“The safety of South Kingstown citizens isn’t in any way compromised in the meantime, I want to be clear about that,” Manni said.
12 News reached out to Moynihan for comment but has not heard back.