Police probe underage drinking party at gov's home

EXETER, R.I. (WPRI) -  The Rhode Island State Police are investigating allegations of underage drinking at one of Governor Lincoln Chafee's homes.

630 WPRO has reported that one teen was so drunk she had to be taken to a hospital.

A police report obtained by the radio station says the party was hosted by Chafee's son, Caleb Chafee, to celebrate graduating from high school.

Caleb Chafee, 18, decided to throw a celebration at the Chafee residence in Exeter on May 28th, inviting about 12 people, according to the police report.

Witnesses told police people began arriving at the residence around 1 p.m. and the woman was transported to Kent Hospital just before 7 p.m., according to the report.

When police attempted to question the governor's son, the first lady requested the conversation be recorded, but following the advice of his lawyer, Caleb pleaded the fifth and declined to answer questions.

Christine Hunsinger, a spokeswoman for Governor Chafee, released a statement to Eyewitness News saying, “The governor is aware there is an ongoing investigation. There will be no further comment at this time.”

Eyewitness News later spoke to the Governor at the Providence Biltmore.  He said it was a private matter, and said he son was "very remorseful, 18-year-olds getting in trouble.  I don't have anything further to say."

State Police have declined to release the report because no arrests have been made.

The police report indicates neither the governor nor the first lady were home at the residence at the time of the alleged party.

Earlier this year, Caleb pleaded no contest to a minor in possession of alcohol charges.

• Jamestown cops charge Gov. Chafee's son