Rhode Island Prosecutor in Viral Arrest Video Placed on Unpaid Leave as Career Hangs in the Balance

A Rhode Island prosecutor whose arrest became a viral sensation after she threatened police officers will be placed on unpaid leave, officials announced. Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan, who was arrested for trespassing on August 14, will begin her suspension without pay starting Monday, according to a statement from the Attorney General’s office.

The duration of Flanagan’s unpaid leave remains uncertain as the AG’s office reviews her employment status. Officials did not provide additional information regarding the timeline for a final decision on her job.

Details of the Incident

Flanagan’s arrest occurred outside the Clarke Cooke House restaurant in Newport, where she allegedly attempted to leverage her position to avoid being detained. In a video that circulated widely on social media, Flanagan can be heard repeatedly asserting her role as an Assistant Attorney General, stating, “I’m an AG! I’m an AG!” as officers attempted to take her into custody for failing to comply with their requests.

“You’re going to regret this. You’re going to regret it. I’m an A-,” she continued, just before being placed in the back of a police car. One of the arresting officers responded dismissively, “Good for you, I don’t give a s—.”

During the confrontation, Flanagan also demanded that the officers turn off their body cameras, incorrectly claiming that they were legally required to do so. The AG’s office later clarified that her assertion was false.

Response from the Attorney General

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha condemned Flanagan’s behavior, labeling it as “inexcusable” and stating that it has brought shame to his office. In an interview with WPRO Radio, he expressed disappointment, saying, “I’ve got 110 lawyers. She embarrassed all of them.”

Neronha indicated that it is challenging to find and retain capable lawyers, emphasizing the need for careful consideration regarding Flanagan’s future with the office. He stated, “But no question there will be a strong, strong sanction here,” adding that he believed Flanagan may have been under the influence of alcohol during the incident, though he reiterated that this does not excuse her actions.

The Attorney General also extended an apology to the Newport Police Department for Flanagan’s conduct. “I’m not sure what she was thinking. Clearly, she was not thinking straight,” Neronha remarked.

He concluded by noting the long-term impact of her actions on her career, stating, “She’s humiliated herself. Regardless of what happens vis-a-vis her employment with us, she’s going to have a long time coming back from this. It’s just really unfortunate.”