Additional 'Action' By Town on Guilty Police Officer Must Wait for Appeal

Barrington Police Sgt. Joseph Andreozzi, found guilty in Superior Court last week of cyberstalking his ex-wife and obstructing a RI State Police investigation into that matter, will remain suspended from the police department without pay.

Andreozzi was on paid leave until a Grand Jury indicted him last year. He was then suspended without pay by Barrington Police Chief John LaCross.

“I’ve been in touch with the labor attorney and the town manager,” LaCross said. “Appropriate action will be taken (on his employment status) after Aug. 2, when the judge will hear his request for a new trial.”

LaCross said any new town action, such as terminating the officer, will have to wait until the court rules on his appeal. Any other action is premature, he said.

Andreozzi was found guilty on both charges. Obstruction of justice is a felony and could mean up to a 5-year sentence. Cyberstalking is a misdemeanor and could mean up to a 1-year prison sentence. A date for sentencing has not been scheduled pending the appeal.

Andreozzi, of Pawtucket, remains out on bail, but Judge Susan McGuirl amended the conditions to his bail to include:

• Increased bail to $10,000 with surety (it was previously personal recognizance)
• No contact with the victim
• Restricted his travel to within the state (no out of state travel)
• No access to firearms (his firearms had previously been taken).