Official Misconduct Alleged: Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan Hogan was arrested in Newport on Thursday night for willful trespassing at the Clarke Cooke House, marking a significant incident involving a high-ranking law enforcement official. The arrest has garnered attention from multiple news outlets, including GoLocal, WPRI, Patch, and NBC 10 WJAR, raising questions about professional conduct and accountability.
The Arrest Details
According to reports from various media sources, including WPRI, the Newport Police Department responded to a call at the Clarke Cooke House regarding a disturbance. Devon Flanagan Hogan, identified as a Special Assistant Attorney General on the staff of Attorney General Peter Neronha, and others were allegedly being disruptive and refused to leave the premises. The situation escalated, leading to Hogan’s arrest.
Body Camera Footage
Body camera footage released by the Newport Police Department, as reported by GoLocal, captured the events leading to Hogan’s arrest. The footage reportedly shows Hogan repeatedly berating officers and invoking her position, stating, “I am an AG,” while being taken into custody and handcuffed. This footage has become a key piece of evidence in understanding the circumstances surrounding the incident and Hogan’s behavior during the arrest.
Charges and Court Summons
As a result of her actions, Devon Flanagan Hogan was charged with willful trespassing. NBC 10 WJAR reported that she was issued a District Court Summons, requiring her to appear in court to face the charges. The legal proceedings will determine the consequences of her alleged actions and the impact on her professional standing.
Devon Flanagan Hogan’s Background and Role
Devon Flanagan Hogan has been with the Attorney General’s office for approximately seven years. According to Patch, she is currently assigned to the Appellate Unit of the Criminal Division. Her role involves handling appeals and legal matters within the criminal justice system, making her arrest all the more notable given her position of authority.
Uncooperative During Booking
Reports indicate that Hogan’s behavior did not improve during the booking process. She was reportedly uncooperative, continuing to berate officers and refusing to follow instructions. This behavior has added another layer of complexity to the situation, raising questions about her conduct and professionalism under pressure. The ongoing investigation will likely consider her actions during the booking process as well.
Additional Arrest: Veronica Hannan
Devon Flanagan Hogan was not the only individual arrested during the incident at the Clarke Cooke House. Veronica Hannan was also taken into custody and faces multiple charges. According to initial reports, Hannan faces charges of willful trespass, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. Her involvement adds another dimension to the incident, suggesting a broader disruption at the restaurant.
Attorney General’s Office Response
The Attorney General’s office, led by Peter Neronha, has acknowledged the incident and stated that it is currently reviewing the situation. This review will likely involve gathering all available information, including police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements, to determine the appropriate course of action. The office’s response will be critical in addressing concerns about accountability and maintaining public trust.
Internal Review and Potential Consequences
The internal review by the Attorney General’s office will likely assess Hogan’s conduct in relation to professional standards and legal requirements. Depending on the findings, Hogan could face disciplinary actions, ranging from a reprimand to suspension or even termination. The outcome of the review will depend on the severity of the alleged misconduct and its impact on the office’s reputation. The Attorney General’s office has not released a timeline for the completion of this review.
Clarke Cooke House Incident: Public Reaction and Media Coverage
The arrest of Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan Hogan has generated significant public interest and media coverage. The incident has sparked discussions about the behavior of public officials, the use of authority, and the importance of accountability within the legal system. The extensive coverage by outlets like GoLocal, WPRI, Patch, and NBC 10 WJAR underscores the public’s interest in the matter.
Ethical Considerations
The incident raises important ethical considerations for legal professionals. Attorneys are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct, both in and out of the courtroom. Hogan’s alleged behavior, including berating officers and invoking her position, could be seen as a violation of these ethical standards. The legal community will likely be closely watching the outcome of the investigation and any disciplinary actions taken.
Conclusion
The arrest of Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan Hogan for willful trespassing in Newport has triggered a series of reviews and public scrutiny. With multiple news outlets reporting the incident and body camera footage capturing the event, the focus remains on accountability and ethical conduct. As the Attorney General’s office conducts its internal review and the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will undoubtedly set a precedent for how such incidents are handled in the future, reinforcing the importance of upholding professional standards in law enforcement.
