East Providence Detective Dies After 'Courageous' Cancer Fight

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Police Detective Corporal Jose "Joe" Taveira died shortly after midnight on Friday, according to the Police Department. Taveira has been a part of East Providence police for more than 20 years, having found an expertise in financial crimes, taking special pride when he was able to recover funds from victims of fraud, especially the elderly.

"He was very liked and respected throughout the community and throughout law enforcement," said Police Detective Lt. Raymond Blinn.

Officers in the East Providence Police Department are wearing black bands across their badges in mourning of Taveira.

Blinn, who was Taveira's immediate supervisor, said Taveira was "a very community-oriented police officer." Taveira was also very involved in his church, the Holy Rosary Church in Providence.

Mayor Roberto DaSilva expressed solemn words upon Taveira's death, saying Taveira was a friend.

"I was very sad to have learned he passed away," said DaSilva.

According to Blinn, Taveira fought cancer that started as melanoma. He has fought that battle for the better part of 16 years, and although he seemed to have been winning the battle, this year the disease came back more aggressively, said Blinn. Taveira has been on paid sick leave for three months until his death Friday.

"He fought courageously, and plenty of dignity," said Blinn.

A good turnout was seen at Tuesday's golf tournament in benefit of Taveira and his family, as he battled his illness before he died, said DaSilva. The detectives' unit of East Providence is still accepting funds to benefit Taveira's family. Checks toward the cause can be sent to: EPPD Detectives' Charity, 750 Waterman Ave., East Providence, RI, 02914.

Blinn said that members of East Providence Police Department are still working with Taveira's family to arrange memorial services. The police are planning a tribute to his memory, to which he was "well deserving," he said.

Taveira, 52, was a North Providence resident, according to his obituary. His funeral is scheduled to take place Wednesday morning.