Investigations Ongoing into Multiple Assault Cases in Providence

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Police investigating an assault incident outside a Dunkin' in Providence, highlighting public safety issues.

News Summary

Providence police are investigating a series of assault incidents, including an altercation at a Dunkin’ and an attack on a housekeeping staff member at Rhode Island College. Initial reports indicate a stabbing that later turned out to be a head injury from a fall. Additionally, a police sergeant pled no contest to charges of simple assault against an individual. In a separate incident, a man was charged with assaulting a female staff member at RIC. The community remains alert as law enforcement emphasizes safety and accountability.

Providence – Providence police are currently investigating a series of assault incidents, including an altercation at a Dunkin’ on Broad Street and another involving a member of the housekeeping staff at Rhode Island College (RIC). Authorities reported multiple details regarding each case, leading to ongoing investigations and preliminary legal actions.

On Saturday afternoon, police responded to a Dunkin’ after receiving reports of an assault. Initial accounts suggested a stabbing occurred on West Clifford Street; however, subsequent investigation revealed that the incident took place a few blocks away. During the altercation, the victim sustained a cut to the head after hitting the ground. As of now, no arrests have been made, and detectives are actively continuing their investigation into the matter.

In a separate incident involving Providence police, Sergeant Joseph Hanley pled no contest to charges of simple assault for his actions against a handcuffed individual in early 2020. The sergeant allegedly kicked and punched Rishod Gore during the incident, which occurred amid unrest sparked by the murder of George Floyd. A disciplinary hearing for Hanley is ongoing and represents a significant moment, as it is the last under the 1976 version of the Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights. Hanley has remained suspended without pay since the incident and faces scrutiny over the use of unreasonable and unlawful force against Gore, who had subsequent charges dismissed during that altercation.

Meanwhile, a separate and concerning incident unfolded at Rhode Island College where a man, later identified as Keveon Gomera, allegedly assaulted a female housekeeping staff member. While she was cleaning in Roberts Hall, Gomera reportedly entered the facility and, without her consent, grabbed her and attempted to hug her against her will. The staff member indicated that the nature of the assault left her feeling that she “almost been raped.” Following the incident, Gomera was apprehended and charged with simple assault; he pleaded not guilty during a court appearance. The judge set his bail at $1,000 with conditions that he maintain no contact with the victim, although Gomera was remanded to the Adult Correctional Institutions due to being on probation for previous charges.

Adding to the series of recent assault cases, East Providence Police arrested Robert McCoart, 39, for an alleged assault against a school bus driver in November. McCoart reportedly used racial slurs during the encounter, threatening both the driver and his family. After a few days of searching for him, McCoart voluntarily turned himself in to authorities. Police in East Providence have condemned such behavior and reiterated their commitment to maintaining community safety, sharing security camera footage of the attack for public awareness.

As investigations continue into these various incidents, the community remains on alert, and law enforcement officials stress the importance of safety and accountability. The recent uptick in assaults and related behavior has prompted discussions among local residents regarding measures to enhance security and support for victims.

In summary, the incidents occurring in Providence and surrounding areas reflect a concerning trend of assaults, with arrests and legal proceedings ongoing for several individuals involved. Police agencies emphasize their dedication to public safety as they work to investigate these allegations thoroughly.