By Steve Klamkin WPRO News
Rhode Island State Police say they are confident in their fiscal controls, but will review the procedures for the extra money paid to officers for overtime and road details following a scandal in Massachusetts that’s put 21 current and former state police officers under investigation after an audit showed they were paid for details they didn’t work.
“I can’t speak to what happened in Massachusetts or what their control system was,” said Major Timothy Sanzi, the Executive Administrative Officer for the Rhode Island State Police.
“We’re very confident that our system provides oversight and accountability for the distribution of this overtime, and we’re comfortable with that,” said Sanzi.
He provided detailed policies and procedures used by the Rhode Island State Police governing road details and overtime, which totaled $5,603,148 between July, 2016 and June, 2017.
The Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police, Colonel Kerry Gilpin reported 21 current and former officers patrolling the Massachusetts Turnpike were under review, facing what are called duty status hearings.
Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo expressed confidence in the systems and controls used by the state police here.
“I do have confidence in them, they have good process. Everything is documented and above board.”
In the wake of the Massachusetts probe, state police here are reviewing their policies and procedures.
“It’s always a good idea to take another look at things and we will certainly do that,” said Maj. Sanzi.
