Cicilline: public trust is broken

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) - Providence mayor David Cicilline commented publicly Saturday about the state police cocaine bust dubbed "Operation Deception," calling the officers' behavior "egregious."

Cicilline, who's running for the seat in the House of Representatives being vacated by Patrick Kennedy, made the comments while appearing at the St. Patrick's Day parade in Pawtucket.

"The behavior of these three individuals has broken the trust of the public," Cicilline said.  "They should be punished to the full extent of the law if they're convicted of these crimes."

Fellow Congressional candidate Bill Lynch also weighed in on the issue at the parade.

"I certainly hope it is limited to just a few officers," Lynch said.  "Obviously most police officers, men and women I know around the state, are honest."

Three Providence police officers were among six people arrested as part of a major drug sting in Rhode Island.

Investigators announced the details of the bust, dubbed "Operation Deception" during a conference at Rhode Island State Police headquarters in North Scituate Thursday.

The officers are Sgt. Steven Gonsalves, Patrolman Robert Hamlin and Detective Joseph Colanduano.

Four other officers were also placed on administrative duty.