Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

NORTH PROVIDENCE -- John J. Whiting, the chief of the criminal investigative division of the Pawtucket police and the department's senior ranking major, has been named the new chief of police in North Providence.

Mayor Charles Lombardi said Whiting, 55, is exactly the kind of leader he believes can move the department forward and that Whiting can command respect from the time he walks through the door. He will be sworn in on the evening of Nov. 16.

A three-member panel headed by former state police Supt. Stephen Pare reviewed the qualifications of 14 applicants and, earlier this month, forwarded to Lombardi the names of three finalists and one alternate. Lombardi said choosing from the top contenders "was not an easy decision." Included among the finalists was State Police Lt. David Palmer who, through arrangement with State Police Supt. Brendan Doherty, has been serving as acting chief since former chief Ernest Spaziano's surprise resignation in February.

Whiting has been a member of the Pawtucket Police Department for 29 years, and part of the command staff there for 12 years. He played a key role in a joint investigation into North Providence police Sgt. Michael Ciresi that began when the officer's gun was found at the scene of a home invasion on East Avenue in Pawtucket in December 2004. Ciresi was ultimately convicted on 9 of 10 counts, and is currently at the Adult Correctional Institutions while he appeals his 20-year sentence to the Supreme Court.

In his letter of application for the North Providence post, Whiting said he does not shy away from difficult decisions or assignments" yet at the same time he believes he tries to handle situations in a "just and fair manner."

"There are a lot of fine men and women in the North Providence police department and I am looking forward to working with them," he said.

Whiting has a varied background. He is a cum laude graduate of Bryant College, where he received degrees in criminal justice and business management. He also holds a juris doctorate from the New England School of Law.

Det. Sgt. David Drezek, president of the North Providence lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, commended the selection of a permanent chief of police, saying it will help to move the department forward. He also thanked Lt. Palmer for helping to bridge the gap to permanent leader.

-- Journal staff writer Richard Dujardin

 Tags  John J. Whiting North Providence Pawtucket police chief

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