Former State Representative John Carnevale Pleads to Perjury: AG

PROVIDENCE, RI—Former State Rep. John Carnevale on Wednesday pleaded no contest to a perjury charge, the state Attorney General's office said. Carnevale, 56, is running for his old District 13 seat. However, Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea said Wednesday his name is being removed from the ballot. He was sentenced to five years but with "nine months to serve on home confinement and the remainder suspended with probation." The sentence starts on Aug. 22, conditional on the determination Carnevale is eligible for home confinement.

The perjury charge was connected to a July 13, 2016 hearing before Providence Board of Canvassers. According to the state Attorney General's office, he "lied under oath three times in response to questions stating he resided at 150 Barbara Street, Providence."

“When elected officials lie, whether it be to a public body like the Board of Canvassers or the people they are elected to serve, it erodes the public’s faith in all government,” said Attorney General Kilmartin. “Despite this defendant’s arrogance and attitude that he was untouchable, today’s plea proves just the opposite - no one is above the law. It is my hope that today’s plea will help restore some of the public’s trust, knowing that police and prosecutors will continue to hold our public officials accountable for their actions.”

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