Woonsocket Has a New Police Chief

WOONSOCKET, RI—The Woonsocket Police Department has a new chief: Commander Thomas F. Oates III.

Oates currently serves as the Deputy Chief of the Providence Police Department—the second in command—and has served as an officer in Rhode Island's capital city for 36 years.

"I am excited for the opportunity to lead the men and women of the Woonsocket Police Department," Oates said. "I look forward to establishing positive relationships within the Department and the community over the coming weeks as the new chief."

Oates was the top pick after a search process that began in January with the appointment of members to a Police Chief Search Committee. Members of the City Council, City Hall and outside law enforcement served on the committee.

The committee narrowed down their list to five candidates by June. The city announced Oats was the final pick on Tuesday.

As Woonsocket's new chief, Oats takes over a department with 90 officers and 16 civilian staff members.

Woonsocket Mayor Lisa Baldelli-Hunt said Oates comes to a city with a wealth of experience from a 42-year-career in law enforcement.

“The Chief of Police is one of the most important jobs within the city," Baldelli-Hunt said. “I am looking forward to working with Chief Oates to meet our high standards for law enforcement in this community. I would like to congratulate Chief Oates on becoming part of a great department and welcome him to the Woonsocket community.”

Oats replaces former Chief Thomas Carey, who retired in February after serving Woonsocket for seven years as chief.

A resident of Glocester, Oates began his career in law enforcemnt as a rookie officer in Smithfield at the ripe age of 18.

Woonsocket Public Safety Director Gino Jalette said that the final choice for the chief's job was a difficult one, if not one of the toughest he's ever made in more than 25 years.

"I am confident that Chief Oates will deliver the expected level of service the Woonsocket Police Department is known for. I believe his proven leadership and experience will help our department to continue to provide great law enforcement services to the community," Jalette said.

Oates will begin a transition process and is expected to be full time in Woonsocket in a few weeks.

A formal swearing-in ceremony will be conducted at a later date.