Statements by Mayor James A. Diossa and Colonel Daniel Barzykowski on Wyatt Detention facility incident

Mayor James A. Diossa and Colonel Daniel Barzykowski released the following statements today in response to the grand jury findings related to the incident at the Wyatt Detention facility on August 14, 2019.

Mayor James A. Diossa said, “I want to thank Attorney General Neronha and Colonel Manni for their assistance in this investigation, but I am obviously disappointed with the results of the grand jury process.  When I reached out to them after the incident and asked for their assistance, their response was immediate and positive, and I appreciate their collaboration with the Central Falls Police Department and their commitment to executing a thorough investigation. The investigators on this case spent countless hours conducting interviews and gathering evidence and I am grateful for their dedication and diligence.”

“With the Wyatt being located in our city and the City receiving no financial benefit, Central Falls is in a challenging position.  Ongoing mediation in Federal Court prevents me from providing much detail, but I will continue to work with city and state leaders to find ways to minimize the negative impacts of this facility on the life of our community,” Diossa concluded.

Colonel Daniel Barzykowski, Chief of the Central Falls Police Department added, “We will continue to use our resources to protect those who exercise their right to assemble and speak freely in our streets.  Public safety is paramount, and we will maintain order. We will continue to collaborate with our public safety partners and communicate with other involved parties to ensure safety at future gatherings.”

“Our department received a tremendous amount of encouragement from the community following this incident. I am grateful for their trust and the opportunity to serve this great city,” Barzykowski said.