Governor fights ruling on Narragansett testimony

Friday, August 17, 2007  

Rhode Island Gov. Donald Carcieri (R) asked the state Supreme Court on Thursday to block him from testifying about his role in the July 2003 raid of the Narragansett Reservation.

Carcieri ordered state troopers to raid the reservation and shut down a tax-free smokeshop. But he claims he told police to withdraw if they encountered resistance.

Former Supt. Steven M. Pare, the head of the state police, testified that Carcieri did not tell troopers to withdraw. Seven tribal members -- including Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas -- ended up being arrested after clashing with police.

Carcieri, citing executive privilege, wants an expedited ruling before the trial starts on September 17.

Get the Story:
Carcieri cites executive privilege in smoke-shop appeal (The Providence Journal 8/17)
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Relevant Links:
Narragansett Tribe - http://www.narragansett-tribe.org

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