East Providence Tabs Former Cop As Director Of Administration

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — A former Pawtucket detective police captain is the new Director of Administration in East Providence. East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva announced on Monday that Napolean Gonsalves will oversee the departments in the city's executive branch of government.

"Mr. Gonsalves' leadership, discipline, strength with policies and procedures and ability to effectively communicate with staff and the public will play an imperative role in this administration," Mayor DaSilva said in a statement. "A dedicated public servant, Gonsalves' knowledge in urban affairs will help drive our community forward."

Gonsalves comes to East Providence from Pawtucket, where he was a detective captain in the Pawtucket Police Department's Major Crimes Unit. He also previously worked in the PPD's Office of Professional Standards. While in Pawtucket, he developed planning and training programs, supervised municipal court and municipal budgets.

Bilingual in Creole, Gonsalves oversaw the Community Works program where he worked with the Pawtucket Soup Kitchen, Leon Mathieau Senior Center and the school department. He served a board member the Capeverdean American Community Development organization.

A U.S. Army veteran, he served for three years in active duty and six years in the reserves. He also earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in urban affairs from the University of Rhode Island.