Rhode Island Troopers Under Scrutiny for Sharing Disturbing Video

News Summary

The Rhode Island State Police are investigating two troopers who allegedly shared a graphic video of a fatal pedestrian accident on social media. The video depicted the death of 21-year-old Alex Montesino, raising ethical concerns about the officers’ behavior. Montesino’s family has called for their termination, expressing outrage at the dehumanizing nature of the video. This incident highlights the need for accountability in law enforcement, especially in sensitive situations. As the investigation concludes, it brings attention to the importance of respectful conduct by police officers and the relationships they maintain with the communities they serve.

Rhode Island – The Rhode Island State Police are currently facing scrutiny as they contemplate disciplinary actions against two troopers for allegedly sharing a disturbing video of a fatal pedestrian crash. This incident has drawn significant attention due to the insensitive nature of the video, which depicted the tragic moment when 21-year-old Alex Montesino was struck and killed while crossing Interstate 95 in Providence last October.

The video, reportedly acquired by a local news station, showed footage from traffic cameras capturing the events leading to Montesino’s death. Allegations suggest that the footage circulated among at least two members of the Rhode Island State Police before being posted on Snapchat, complete with laughter in the background and a crude caption. These actions have raised serious ethical concerns regarding the behavior of the officers involved.

In response to the emergence of the video, the Rhode Island State Police launched an investigation via their Professional Standards Unit. The investigation began after the department became aware of the shared video and the reaction it provoked among the public and the victim’s family. The inquiry has now concluded, with findings indicating that the conduct of the troopers in question does not align with the core values upheld by the Rhode Island State Police.

Montesino’s family has expressed deep sorrow and anger over the situation. They criticized the actions of the troopers for dehumanizing Montesino, transforming a tragic incident into a social media novelty. The family’s emotional distress was compounded when Montesino’s twin sister accidentally encountered the video shortly before attending his funeral, leading them to speak out against the insensitivity displayed by law enforcement.

In light of the findings, the family is calling for the immediate termination of the involved troopers. They believe that terminating them is the minimum consequence for their behavior, and they have also suggested that the officers seek mental health assistance. This incident has highlighted the need for accountability and sensitivity from law enforcement, particularly when dealing with matters that deeply affect the lives of individuals and their families.

The state police have offered their condolences to Montesino’s family throughout the investigation. However, many in the community feel that the months of silence from the department have left the family without the closure they desperately sought. As the case draws attention, it underscores the importance of respectful conduct within the ranks of law enforcement, particularly in instances involving tragic loss.

The Rhode Island State Police are now faced with a crucial decision regarding the future of the troopers involved. As the investigation wraps up, it is evident that the actions surrounding this incident have significant implications not only for the officers but also for the public’s trust in law enforcement and their ability to handle sensitive situations with the decorum they demand.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Turn to 10: Family Demands Action as Troopers Share Video of Death
• Providence Journal: RI State Police Fire Two Troopers Citing Snapchat Video
• NBC Boston: RI State Troopers Face Discipline for Sharing Video of Death on Snapchat
• Google Search: Rhode Island State Police
• WPRI: RI Police Departments Take Part in Annual Police Unity Tour
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island