Defense rests in Whiting larceny trial

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The defense rested Tuesday morning in the larceny trial of suspended North Providence Police Chief Colonel John Whiting.

Whiting was back on the stand for the second straight day in Providence Superior Court, and faced tough questioning Tuesday by Judge Daniel Procaccini.

Procaccini is presiding over the trial and will rule on the case.  Colonel Whiting waived his right to a jury trial.

Whiting is accused of stealing $714 from the pocketbook of a stripper following a police chase in Pawtucket last summer during Tropical Storm Irene. 

Prosecutors say he gave the money to Pawtucket Police officer John Brown and told him to spend it in Las Vegas and to keep quiet about the theft.

Whiting testified Monday that he seized the money as evidence and claims he was being sarcastic when he suggested Brown spend it in Vegas.

Closing arguments are scheduled to be heard in Providence Superior Court next Tuesday, July 3.