East Greenwich Police Officer Resigns Following Arrest

EAST GREENWICH, RI — And East Greenwich police officer resigned from the force after being arrested over the weekend and charged with several counts of domestic abuse. On Thursday, the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence released a statement condemning Edmonds' actions and praising the Pawtucket Police Department for how they handled the situation.

"We are deeply concerned about the charges in the domestic violence case involving Officer Mark Edmonds," the statement reads. "Victims whose abusers are police officers are particularly vulnerable because the officer has a gun, is well trained in surveillance, knows the legal system, and likely knows about the resources available for victims, including the confidential locations of domestic violence shelters."

A police report released by the Pawtucket Police Department details nearly a year of ongoing abuse to a female victim. The victim reported being strangled, verbally abused and threatened with a gun by Edmonds, including being kicked in the stomach while pregnant.

East Greenwich Police Chief Stephen Brown confirmed on Thursday that Edmonds resigned from the force on Tuesday.

According to the coalition, the likelihood of a death associated with domestic violence increases with certain risk factors, which include a pattern of violence, owning a gun, strangulation and more. In addition, a victim is more at risk when trying to leave an abusive relationship. Police officers, in particular, are some of the most dangerous abusers.

"We urge law enforcement and the criminal justice system to ensure strong protections that prioritize the safety of victims," the statement continued. "We are relieved that the Pawtucket Police Department acted promptly in this case. Police departments in Rhode Island must take domestic violence allegations seriously, hold officers accountable, and act with urgency to keep victims safe."

The coalition thanked the Pawtucket Police Department for their quick action, saying Rhode Island law enforcement needs to send a strong message that there is never a reason to excuse abuse and encourage victims to speak out.