State Police to investigate bad check

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - More bad news for disgraced and disbarred John Cicilline.  

Days after the Providence mayor's brother was sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiracy the state police financial crimes unit is investigating the former defense attorney for allegedly writing a bad check to the city of Providence.    

Providence Mayor David Cicilline has asked for an independent auditor to look into the check. The Rhode Island State Police have also begun an investigation, to see if there should be any criminal charges.

Lt. Colonel Steven O'Donnell says they are doing so at the request of Providence Police Chief Dean Esserman.  

Two years ago John Cicilline wrote a 75 thousand dollar check on behalf of a client, Nelson Garcia for back real estate taxes. The check bounced, and the city apparently never tried to recollect the taxes.

Robert Ceprano, the city tax collector, was placed on paid administrative leave. Attorney Artin Coloian, who Ceprano has consulted with, says he has every confidence he has done nothing wrong.

Coloian also says there is a paper trail here that wouldn't be difficult for anyone to follow. Lt. Colonel O'Donnell says the investigation findings will be forwarded to the attorney general's office to determine if criminal charges are warranted.