CPD closes investigation into altercation at memorial ceremony

The Cranston Police Department announced in a report on Tuesday that it has closed its internal investigation into an incident that occurred on May 18 at its annual police memorial ceremony.

The report concludes that one officer, identified by various reports as suspended North Providence Police Chief Christopher Pelagio, was the aggressor in a verbal altercation with an unnamed Cranston police officer. The report included video surveillance of the incident and interviews of those involved and surrounding the scene.

“The investigation confirms that the confrontation was initiated by the officer from the visiting police department and that no Cranston Police Department personnel acted inappropriately,” Cranston Police Chief Col. Michael Winquist said. “At no time was there any physical contact or actions that were determined to be criminal in nature.”

Mayor Allan Fung also released a statement on the matter.

“I am satisfied with the outcome of this thorough investigation by one of our department’s top officers,” Fung said. “I’m glad our officer did nothing inappropriate and the city is closing its investigation at this time.”