PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island state police have suspended a high-ranking officer with pay while an undisclosed allegation is being investigated.
The Providence Journal reported Thursday that State Police Col. Steven O'Donnell confirmed disciplinary action has been taken against 45-year-old Lt. Col. Wilfred Hill, the agency's third-highest ranking officer. O'Donnell declined to comment on the allegation, saying he couldn't give details of an internal matter.
State police legal counsel Lisa Holley said Hill was placed on administrative leave Tuesday, and Massachusetts State Police are helping in the Rhode Island State Police investigation to avoid appearance of conflict of interest.
The 22-year veteran was promoted in April. The job includes overseeing the state police training academy, sheriffs, capitol police, fire marshal and the emergency telephone system.