CURFEW RESCINDED
Mayor ends citywide curfew after nights of ‘relative calm’
WOONSOCKET – Citing the passing of two nights of “relative calm” within the city, Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt on Thursday announced she was rescinding her executive order issued Wednesday imposing a citywide curfew during the nighttime.
“Public Safety Officials took extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of our residents, visitors and property,” Baldelli-Hunt said while moving to lift the curfew.
“I thank all our residents and proprietors for their understanding throughout the last several days where we have witnessed turbulent behavior in nearby communities and threats against the City of Woonsocket. I believe we took necessary precautions to keep our community safe.”
A group of about 100 peaceful protesters march up Main Street early Wednesday evening and after making a stop at the mini-park near city hall, continued on to the Woonsocket Police Department where representatives of the group had a discussion with Police Chief Thomas F. Oates III and other police officials.
Several members of the police department had also walked with the protesters on their march and the event remained peaceful throughout.
Later in the night, after the curfew went into effect, police units made regular patrols through the Main Street area, occasionally stopping a vehicle passing through the area. Two National Guard helicopters also made frequent passes over the district as the night continued.
Public Safety Director Eugene Jalette on Thursday said the city was continuing “to work daily with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners analyzing data and monitoring threat assessments. “Protecting our citizens and their property is paramount,” he said.
Jalette asked that city residents report suspicious activity to the police department at 401-766-1212. Callers can remain anonymous, he noted.
Jalette added he welcomes further comment. He can be reached through city hall by calling 762-6400.