Neronha: Investigation Focused on Truck, Pepper Spray Used Against Protesters

PROVIDENCE — Rhode Island Atty. Gen. Peter Neronha today urged patience and asked for additional witness recordings and statements as his office investigates the vehicular and pepper spray assault of protesters at the Wyatt Detention Facility Aug. 15.

On Aug. 16, Capt. Thomas Woodworth, the Wyatt Center guard placed on administrative leave following the incident, resigned. News of Woodworth’s resignation was welcomed by NeverAgainAction.

“However, Woodworth’s resignation is just the beginning. First, he should face criminal charges for his actions which endangered the lives of protesters on Wednesday night. The other officers who indiscriminately pepper-sprayed a distraught and traumatized crowd must face accountability for the violence they enacted, which sent three more people to the hospital,” the organization, whose members were assaulted during their protest of the Wyatt center, stated in a release.

“The incident last Wednesday night involved many, many people, and several distinct acts,” said Neronha. “All the evidence that pertains to those acts, and the individuals involved, needs to be gathered and reviewed.”

Neronha outlined the two areas investigators are focusing on:  Operation of the truck and deployment of pepper spray.

Neronha outlined the process by which the investigative team is reviewing the information, which includes video footage, additional recordings, and over 30 recorded witness statements. He encouraged anyone who may have additional information to please come forward by contacting the Attorney General’s office, the Rhode Island State Police, or the Central Falls Police Department.

“To be clear: we want to speak with anyone that has information regarding what occurred that night,” said Neronha. “What they saw. What they heard. What injuries they suffered.”

In its statement, NeverAgainAction said, “We expect the investigation by the Rhode Island State Police and the Attorney General to continue and to address the violence and dehumanization that is an integral part of the ICE detention process. If these officers felt empowered to attack a group of protesters in front of the public and the media, imagine what kind of violence must be taking place inside the prison, out of site, against vulnerable immigrants and people of color.

“That is why we will continue to take action. Woodworth has resigned, but many others remain. We urge all ICE officers to join us in making the moral choice: quit your jobs, stand with us,” NeverAgainAction added.