News Summary
Devon Flanagan, a Special Assistant Attorney General in Rhode Island, was arrested for trespassing outside a Newport restaurant. Video footage captured her confrontational interactions with police as she was charged with willful trespassing. In light of the incident, Attorney General Peter Neronha is reviewing Flanagan’s conduct and has stated that strong sanctions will be imposed. This incident raises significant concerns about accountability and the professional behavior expected from public officials.
Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office Reviews Arrest of Assistant Attorney General for Trespassing
Rhode Island Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan was arrested for trespassing outside a Newport restaurant on August 14, 2025. The incident, captured on police body camera footage, shows Flanagan exhibiting confrontational behavior at the time of her arrest. She was charged with one count of willful trespassing, a misdemeanor.
The Newport Police were called to the Clarke Cooke House restaurant around 9:51 p.m. for reports of an “unwanted party.” Upon arrival, officers requested Flanagan and her companion, Veronica Hannan, to leave the premises. Flanagan allegedly refused to comply with the officers’ request, insisting that she was not trespassing and that police had not properly informed her of such status.
During the arrest, Flanagan repeated the statement, “I’m an A.G.,” while also requesting police to turn off their body cameras, claiming that this was protocol. Despite Flanagan’s claims, restaurant staff confirmed that they had requested her and Hannan’s removal.
Hannan, who was present during the confrontation, faced more serious charges, including disorderly conduct, willful trespassing, and resisting arrest. Both women’s arrest reports indicated that alcohol was a factor in the incident.
Consequences and Review of Conduct
In response to the incident, the Rhode Island Attorney General’s office has announced a review of Flanagan’s actions. The Attorney General, Peter Neronha, labeled Flanagan’s behavior as “inexcusable,” emphasizing the embarrassment her actions have caused to both herself and the legal office. The Attorney General confirmed that Flanagan would face “strong sanctions,” which may include suspension without pay and required apologies to the Newport Police Department.
The Attorney General also acknowledged the need to balance disciplinary actions with the human impacts on Flanagan’s family, showing consideration amid the decision-making process.
Flanagan’s Background
Devon Flanagan has been part of the Rhode Island Attorney General’s office for approximately seven years, working in the criminal division’s appellate unit. Her experience and position within the office have contributed to the gravity of the current situation, making her conduct under scrutiny particularly significant.
As the Attorney General’s office conducts its review of the incident, Flanagan has been placed on unpaid leave. A spokesperson for the Attorney General’s office stated that due to the nature of personnel issues involved, they are unable to provide further comments on the matter.
This incident raises important questions concerning professional conduct, accountability, and the potential consequences for public officials when their actions contradict their positions of responsibility.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today
- Wikipedia: Devon Flanagan
- WPRI
- Google Search: Devon Flanagan
- NBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island
- Turn to 10
- Google Scholar: Rhode Island Attorney General
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