Rhode Island Assistant Attorney General Devon Flanagan, whose arrest for trespassing during a viral incident, has been placed on unpaid leave, according to the Rhode Island Attorney General’s office. The incident, which sparked widespread attention, saw Flanagan confront officers and claim she was an attorney general, prompting a strong reaction. The office is reviewing the matter, and the duration of her unpaid leave remains uncertain. Attorney General Peter Neronha described the incident as ‘inexcusable behavior’ and warned of ‘strong, strong sanctions.’ The Attorney General’s office did not respond to additional questions about its ongoing review of the matter, or when it might make a final decision. Flanagan’s arrest, which occurred after she reportedly tried to use her position to evade arrest, has raised questions about the conduct of public officials. The incident is under further review, and the outcome could impact her future in the office. The office did not clarify the exact reasons for placing Flanagan on unpaid leave, leaving her job future uncertain. Neronha, in a subsequent radio interview, called the incident ‘inexcusable behavior’ that will likely result in ‘strong, strong sanctions.’ He emphasized that this is not the first time he’s dealt with such a case involving his staff, noting that he had previously let a lawyer go for driving drunk. Neronha also mentioned that Flanagan had an ‘unblemished’ record and is respected within the state bar association, indicating that while the incident was serious, her professional reputation remains intact. However, he stressed that the behavior was unacceptable, suggesting that any decision regarding her future with the office would be carefully considered. The attorney general also addressed the specific details of the incident, including whether Flanagan was right in telling the officer it was the law that he must turn off his body camera upon request by a citizen. Neronha clarified that she was incorrect in her assertion, stating that she was ‘not thinking straight’ at the time. He added that Flanagan’s actions had ‘humiliated herself’ and that she would have a ‘long time coming back from this’ regardless of any employment outcome. The incident has sparked discussions about the conduct of public officials and the balance between personal accountability and professional responsibility. As the review process continues, the outcome will not only affect Flanagan’s career but also set a precedent for how such incidents are handled within the Rhode Island legal system.