Bill > S0933

This resolution celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Rhode Island State Police Department, commemorating its establishment through legislative action on April 2, 1925. The resolution highlights the department's unique origins, noting that it was created to address emerging law enforcement challenges, particularly those related to automobile-era policing, and was designed with a distinctive organizational structure where the Superintendent reports directly to the Governor. The initial legislation allowed the Superintendent to appoint officers, establish headquarters and substations, acquire necessary equipment, and provide protection for officers injured in the line of duty. The resolution emphasizes the department's rigorous initial recruitment process, which saw approximately 600 applicants competing for 23 positions, and celebrates the organization's first leader, Colonel Everitte St. John Chaffee, who established a tradition of excellence. By officially declaring April 2025 as State Police Month and April 2, 2025, as State Police Day, the resolution honors the department's century of service, leadership in law enforcement, and commitment to training both locally and internationally. The resolution also mandates that an official copy be sent to the current Superintendent, Colonel Darnell S. Weaver, as a formal recognition of this significant milestone.

https://status.rilegislature.gov/