Restoring faith in Providence's finest

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Three days after 'Operation Deception' burst on the scene in March, Providence Mayor David Cicilline held a news conference hoping to restore trust in a department plagued with scandal.

"I was appalled and angry," he said.

The mayor announced a three point plan, one element was dramatic.

"I’ve directed the chief to institute random drug testing at the police department effective immediately."

That plan went no where, quickly. Days later the mayor withdrew the order after serious legal questions were raised. But he also announced a full review of how the department loans officers to other agencies.

• In-Depth Coverage: Operation Deception

"One of the officers involved in this investigation has been on loan to the D.E.A. for several years," said Mayor Cicilline.

Finally, the mayor ordered the department to figure out if narcotics detectives should be reassigned after a certain amount of time working grueling drug cases. A spokesperson says the department is still reviewing both policies.

"Four good men were put on restrictive duty for what I hope is temporarily,' said Col. Dean Esserman.

In all, 'Operation Deception' cast a shadow on seven police officers. So far, four have been charged, two who were suspended have been cleared, and 1 remains on paid suspension after being implicated in a separate case.

Providence Police officers are still on loan to other agencies, including the D.E.A.