Devon Hogan Flanagan, a high-profile Rhode Island prosecutor, has sparked outrage after a late-night arrest and viral bodycam footage showed her clashing with police. With public trust on the line, questions swirl: Has she been fired? What led to this shocking incident?
Here's what you need to know—quick.
Quick Facts About Devon Hogan Flanagan's Arrest and Career
- Who is Devon Hogan Flanagan? Flanagan has been a respected prosecutor in Rhode Island's Attorney General's Office for over seven years, working in the Appellate Unit. Known for her sharp courtroom skills and detailed legal writing, she previously served as an Assistant District Attorney in Suffolk County, Massachusetts, and clerked for the Connecticut judiciary.
- What happened during the arrest? On August 14, 2025, Newport police responded to calls about an 'unwanted party' at Clarke Cooke House restaurant. Staff reportedly asked Flanagan and her companion, Veronica Hannan, to leave the premises. When they allegedly refused, officers arrested both women. Flanagan was charged with wilful trespass, while Hannan faced additional charges of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Both were issued court summonses, with no hearing date yet set.
- Why did the video go viral? Bodycam footage released on Monday, 18 August, shows a tense exchange between Flanagan and police officers. Flaunting her status as a prosecutor, Flanagan warned officers that they would 'regret this.' She also insisted incorrectly that officers were required to turn off their body cameras at her request, a claim swiftly disputed by police on the tape. The video quickly spread across social media, feeding debates about accountability and privilege.
- Was Flanagan fired? No, not yet. As of August 20, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha confirmed Flanagan remains employed but is under an internal personnel review. He described her behaviour as 'inexcusable' and said disciplinary actions, including an unpaid suspension, were under consideration.
- What's next? The Attorney General's Office is conducting an ongoing investigation into the incident. The outcome of the personnel review will determine Flanagan's future at the office amid rising public and legal scrutiny.
Arrest Details That Shocked Rhode Island
Flanagan's arrest drew particular attention because of her high-ranking role in the justice system and the unusual nature of the bodycam footage.
In it, she can be seen trying to leverage her position as a prosecutor, attempting to influence officers' conduct during the arrest.
Her companion, Veronica Hannan, can also be seen struggling with police, which led to additional charges against her.
This incident has ignited a firestorm of discussion on social media, where public opinion is divided between defending Flanagan's right to due process and condemning her apparent attempt to intimidate law enforcement.
Attorney General's Response: 'Inexcusable' Behaviour Under Review
Attorney General Peter Neronha addressed the controversy publicly on Tuesday, expressing deep disappointment in Flanagan's conduct. He acknowledged alcohol was involved and stressed the need for high ethical standards among prosecutors and all justice officials.
'We are embarrassed by these events,' Neronha said. 'Prosecutors are held to the highest standards of behaviour, on and off duty. This is being taken extremely seriously.'
Neronha emphasized that if Flanagan remains on the team, she will face serious disciplinary measures, potentially including an unpaid suspension.
Why This Case Matters
The case spotlights a broader national conversation about accountability for public officials, especially those in law enforcement and prosecutorial roles.
It raises questions about where to draw the line between personal conduct and professional responsibility, and how such incidents impact public trust in the justice system.
Legal experts suggest this incident could prompt reviews of conduct policies and training in prosecutor's offices nationwide, as states seek to maintain credibility and authority in times of heightened public scrutiny.
