City of Woonsocket introduces Thomas Oates as Police Chief
Posted on: July 12, 2016 - 3:31pm
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2016
Contact: Blake Collins, bcollins@woonsocketri.org, office: (401) 762-6400 ex: 2963, cell: (508) 838-3371
City of Woonsocket introduces Thomas Oates as Police Chief
WOONSOCKET, RI: Today, at an afternoon press conference in Harris Hall, Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt and Director of Public Safety Gino Jalette announced the selection Thomas F. Oates III as the new Chief of Police of the Woonsocket Police Department. Oates currently serves as the Deputy Chief of the Providence Police Department, where he has served for 36 years. The announcement comes at the conclusion of a months-long comprehensive search by an appointed selection committee, comprised of members of the Woonsocket community, under the direction of Director Jalette.
“I am excited for the opportunity to lead the men and women of the Woonsocket Police Department,” said Deputy Chief Thomas Oates. “I look forward to establishing positive relationships within the Department and the community over the coming weeks as the new Chief of the Woonsocket Police Department.”
As Chief of Police, Oates will oversee all aspects of the Woonsocket Police Department, including 90 officers and a further 16 civilian staff. In a career in law enforcement spanning over 42 years, Oates will take the helm of the Department with a wealth of experience, commendations, and knowledge.
“The Chief of Police is one of the most important jobs within the City of Woonsocket,” said Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt. “I am looking forward to working with Chief Oates to meet our high standards for law enforcement in this community. I would like to congratulate Chief Oates on becoming part of a great department and welcome him to the Woonsocket community.”
In January 2016, the City Council approved Mayor Baldelli-Hunt’s appointments to the Police Chief Search Committee, including representatives from the City Council, community, City Hall, and outside law enforcement. During the months-long selection process, the committee narrowed the search to five candidates, as of June.
“I have been involved in law enforcement in the City of Woonsocket for over 25 years and this decision was one of the most challenging that I have made, said Public Safety Director Gino Jalette. “I am confident that Chief Oates will deliver the expected level of service the Woonsocket Police Department is known for. I believe his proven leadership and experience will help our department to continue to provide great law enforcement services to the community.”
Oates is expected to begin his role once he is able to wind-down current responsibilities with the Providence Police Department, and a formal swearing-in ceremony will soon follow. Today’s announcement concludes the search, which began following the departure of Chief Thomas Carey, who retired in February of this year.
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