East Providence Pledges 'Zero Tolerance' On Racist Stickers

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — East Providence officials said they will treat any racist stickers placed on city property as a crime scene after several of them were recently found.

East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva, along with the East Providence Police Department, declared "zero tolerance" on acts of racism in the city after they were told of stickers placed around the city.

"If any member of the community should witness any acts of vandalism in the future, we ask that you follow this protocol: please do not touch, attempt to remove, or attempt to cover it up in any way," DaSilva said in a statement.

Officials asked that those noticing the stickers should immediately call police, who will treat the location as a crime scene, process the scene and collect any evidence.

"Vandalism will not be tolerated in our community and the city is taking any act of vandalism, racism or hatred very seriously," DaSilva added.

DaSilva said the newly formed East Providence Community Advisory Board will hold a meeting on the stickers on the third floor of Providence City Hall at 6 p.m. on Sept. 9.

"I'm saddened to hear that there may have been racist stickers posted in city parks that citizens and children use," said Municipal Integrity Officer Elmer Pina, who oversees the board. "East Providence is rich and diverse and the city is committed to being inclusive. We stand firmly against racism and its many forms."

Those who spot one of the stickers, or any acts of vandalism, can reach East Providence police at 401-435-7600.