NEW: RI's Miss USA Olivia Culpo Wins Miss Universe

NEW: RI's Miss USA Olivia Culpo Wins Miss Universe

Rhode Island's Miss USA Olivia Culpo took the title of Miss Universe tonight, in front more than one billion viewers and on stage at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 5'5" brunette from Cranston, graduate of Bay View Academy and Boston University, was crowned Miss USA in Las Vegas on June 3, 2012, and has returned to her home state many times already, supporting local causes and organizations.

Culpo was honored by her hometown on July 6, 2012, in a series of events. A story time program was held at the Cranston Public Library at which Culpo read The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein to a group of children. At an outdoor ceremony held at Cranston City Hall, Cranston Mayor Allan Fung presented Culpo with the key to the city. Earlier in the week, Culpo participated in the famous Bristol 4th of July parade.

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She replaces reigning Miss Universe, Leila Lopes of Angola.

The top 5 finalists for the crown were:

Venezuela
Philippines (1st runner-up)
Mexico
USA
Brazil