Former South Kingstown Police Chief Vincent Vespia Jr., 84, Dies

SOUTH KINGSTOWN, RI — Former South Kingstown Police Chief Vincent Vespia Jr., 84, died Tuesday, the town's police department said.

Vespia died unexpectedly Tuesday morning at South County Hospital in South Kingstown. Police said Vespia's wife Judy and daughters Robin and Renee were by his side.

Vespia spent 57 years in law enforcement and retired in 2016 after serving as South Kingstown's police chief for 35 years.

Before becoming a police officer, Vespia served in the U.S. Army. He joined Rhode Island State Police in 1959. It was there he became known across the state for his expertise in investigating organized crime, South Kingstown police said in a statement. In 1981, Vespia became chief of the South Kingstown Police Department.

"He was known for his professionalism and law enforcement expertise and loved by his officers for his integrity and extraordinary leadership skills," South Kingstown police said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vespia family and their loved ones. Thank you, Chief Vespia, for your dedication and service to our town and this department. We have the watch."