As a Massachusetts drug possession lawyer, I was troubled to read a March 5 report in the Providence Journal that detailed the arrest of three Providence police officers in a drug sting. After conducting a four-month undercover investigation relying on an informant, wiretaps, vehicle tracking devices, and photographs, the state police and FBI determined that the three officers were involved with a drug ring. Along with the officers, three other people were arrested and more may be sought as "persons of interest." One officer was released on personal recognizance prior to arraignment, while the other five people arrested spent the night in jail.
Providence narcotics detective Joseph Colanduono, 44, helped to sell cocaine. In addition to his duties for the city, Colanduono was assigned to work with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. Gonsalves, a former driver for Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline., used cocaine himself and solicited others to commit crimes. Gonsalves and Colanduono had both received honors for their police work in the past. Cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, $9000 in cash, and a loaded gun were seized in police searches connected with the officers' arrest.
Cicilline said that the officers' arrest will have "very serious consequences. Good law enforcement relies on the public's trust and confidence in the Police Department and, any time a police officer engages in this kind of behavior, that trust and confidence is undermined." Cicilline wants tests and has within the Police Department.
As a Massachusetts drug possession attorney, I am all too aware of the serious penalties for anyone convicted in Massachusetts (and Rhode Island) of the offenses that these officers are charged with. Anyone charged with drug possession or distribution needs zealous representation by an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney like Attorney Michael DelSignore. Attorney DelSignore may be able to successfully defend those charged with drug offenses by getting improperly collected evidence and unconstitutional testimony excluded.
For a free consultation, please call our office at 508-455-4755 or send an email. You can also set up an appointment at one of our four offices in Stoughton, Westborough, or New Bedford.
