VIDEO: Providence Police investigating off-duty officer who reportedly assaulted woman during Rhode Island abortion rights protest

A local officer is under investigation after an incident during one of Friday’s protests.

The Providence Police Department stated Saturday morning that they are criminally investigating the behavior of an off-duty officer last evening during a protest where a female was assaulted.

According to police, the officer has served for 3 years and has been placed on administrative leave with pay this morning, pending a criminal investigation and administrative review.

The name of the officer and the circumstances surrounding the reported assault were not released in the statement, however, the victim posted the incident and her comments on social media.

I'm a reproductive rights organizer & State Senate candidate. Last night, after speaking at our Roe rally, my Republican opponent – a police officer – violently attacked me.

This is what it is to be a Black woman running for office. I won't give up.pic.twitter.com/ZREDP2dvXY

— Jennifer Rourke (@JenRourke29) June 25, 2022

Jennifer Rourke is a candidate for Rhode Island State Senate in the 29th district. Jeann Lugo is a Providence Police officer and announced this week that he is running for that seat as a republican.