More arrests in Operation Deception

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - The final two defendants indicted in "Operation Deception" turned themselves in to State Police Monday and were arraigned.

Thomas Marrone, 56 of Greenville and Jeremiah Harrison, 23 of North Providence pleaded not guilty Monday afternoon in Providence Superior Court.

Marrone is facing two counts of solicitation, charged with buying cocaine off accused drug ringleader and co-defendant Albert Hamlin.

Harrison is facing two conspiracy counts. State prosecutors say he worked with Hamlin to sell cocaine on at least two occasions. Both men were released on personal recognizance.

• In-Depth Coverage: Operation Deception

The arrests bring the total to 24 defendants in a case that has rocked the Providence Police Department. Four officers, including a veteran narcotics detective, are among the accused. Last week, a grand jury indictment led to an early-morning sweep by the state police, netting a dozen alleged criminals.

State Police Colonel Brendon Doherty said the indictments mark the end of the investigation.

Among the accused, Detective Joseph Colanduono, who is accused of allowing Hamlin to operate a lucrative cocaine ring. In court, it was revealed Hamlin was a confidential informant for Colanduono.

Also charged; Hamlin's brother and Providence patrolman, Robert Hamlin, Providence Police Sergeant Stephen Gonsalves and Detective Robert Enright.

All 24 defendants have now pleaded not guilty. Robert Hamlin and Colanduono remain behind bars awaiting trial. Gonsalves and Enright are free on personal recognizance.

twhite@wpri.com