Manni Resigns as Head of Rhode Island State Police

Manni Resigns as Head of Rhode Island State Police

It is official. Jim Manni has resigned as the head of the Rhode Island State Police.

Governor Dan McKee made an announcement on Monday.

Manni is expected to be appointed as town manager by the South Kingstown Town Council, a post he is slated to start May 2.

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He will remain at the helm of the State Police until April 29.

“Colonel Manni is a man of great integrity who has led this agency with the highest degree of professionalism and dedication,” said McKee. “It is clear to anyone who knows him, that his commitment to the Rhode Island State Police is truly remarkable, and his leadership, particularly over these past three years, has been exemplary. He raised his hand and stepped forward, serving during some of the most challenging times in our history, and the State of Rhode Island is most grateful.”

But his term also had numerous controversies including his handling of the investigation into the 6/10 contamination site in the Olneyville neighborhood as well as his handling of his close friend and State Police trooper's incident of having sex in a cruiser.

Manni claimed accomplishments during his administration, including internal restructuring; the creation of two new units within the State Police -- the Traffic Safety Unit and the Special Victims Unit; commencing plans to build the agency’s first new barracks since 1931, the consolidated Southern Barracks; overhauling the agency’s promotional process; and conducting the pilot program of body-worn camera systems, all of which leave the agency poised for future success.

“I have proudly served, shoulder to shoulder, with the men and women of the State Police to enhance public safety and to serve the people of Rhode Island with respect and dignity,” said Manni. “Leading this agency has been the honor of my lifetime. I leave with the confidence that the agency is set up to succeed and continue in its mission of serving and protecting.”

McKee is considering Manni’s successor and will make an announcement prior to his departure.

This story was first published 3/21/22 7:17 PM