"Follow Me Home": Off-Duty RI Trooper Fired After Fleeing DUI Stop

A Monthslong Investigation Reveals Misconduct Within Rhode Island State Police

A monthslong investigation has led to the arrest of a former Rhode Island State Police officer, highlighting serious issues within the department’s internal procedures and decision-making. The incident involved Former Sgt. Nuno Vasconcelos, who was allowed to drive away from a drunk driving stop despite being observed swerving across the highway. The case has raised concerns about accountability and transparency among law enforcement.

On March 23, state police responded to multiple 911 calls about a vehicle driving erratically. One witness reported that Vasconcelos hit a highway barrier and continued driving. According to police video, Vasconcelos was seen driving on I-295 in Cranston, repeatedly swerving in and out of the roadway. When officers turned on their lights and sirens, he continued crisscrossing lanes for nearly a full minute before finally pulling over.

A trooper later reported that Vasconcelos appeared to be stumbling and had a “slight odor of alcoholic beverage” on his body. However, no field sobriety test was conducted, and Vasconcelos was not stopped from getting back into his truck and driving away without any consequences. This decision sparked outrage and led to an internal investigation.

State police leaders have since acknowledged mistakes were made. Lt. Col. Robert Creamer stated that commanders are “disappointed with the response to the incident that night and the lack of appropriate guidance and supervision.” He added that the situation did not meet the expectations of the Rhode Island State Police.

One of the responding troopers immediately turned off the audio of his body-worn camera upon recognizing Vasconcelos as the driver. Another trooper arrived at the scene and asked, “What ya got?” One of the colleagues responded, “Sidebar,” which is a term used in court for private conversations. This action prevented the recording of what transpired between the two officers.

Vasconcelos was placed into the passenger seat of one of the cruisers and became agitated when he was told his truck would be towed. He reportedly said, “You aren’t towing my [expletive] truck,” and then challenged the trooper to follow him home, promising to drive in a straight line.

After learning about the incident, Vasconcelos was placed on administrative leave, leading to a months-long criminal and internal investigation. On May 5, Col. Darnell Weaver forced Vasconcelos to retire under an obscure state law that allows the superintendent to end a trooper’s employment if they have worked for at least 20 years. This law requires approval from the governor.

Earlier this month, Vasconcelos was charged with reckless driving and obstructing an officer, both misdemeanors. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment in Kent County District Court. In addition to the March 23 incident, Creamer mentioned that troopers had previously stopped Vasconcelos the night before, though details of that incident remain undisclosed.

Vasconcelos’ attorney, Ed Roy, stated that the case is still in its early stages, and his team has not been privy to much information regarding the investigation. Creamer also noted that a supervisor working that night has voluntarily retired in the wake of the incident.

The case has prompted a broader conversation about accountability and oversight within the Rhode Island State Police. As the investigation continues, questions remain about how such incidents can be prevented in the future and whether stricter protocols are needed to ensure that all officers are held to the same standards.