Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Hogan Flanagan Arrested for Trespassing in Newport

NEWPORT, R.I., Aug. 19, 2025 - On Tuesday, the Newport Police Department shared body camera footage. It shows Special Assistant Attorney General Devon Hogan Flanagan’s arrest. This happened last Thursday evening outside the Clarke Cooke House restaurant on Bannister’s Wharf. Flanagan, 34, was charged with willful trespass. Staff asked her and a friend to leave, but they refused.

According to the video, officers arrived just before 10 p.m. on Aug. 14 in response to a report of an “unwanted party.” When asked to depart, Flanagan repeatedly invoked her title-“I’m an AG! “I’m an AG!” they insisted, asking officers to turn off their body cameras. They claimed it was “protocol” for citizen requests. Newport officers said no. They pointed to department and state rules. Cameras can only be turned off to safeguard the privacy of victims or witnesses. As Flanagan was guided into the rear of a patrol car, she warned, “You’re going to regret this”.

Her companion, identified as 34-year-old Veronica Hannan, also resisted arrest. Body-cam footage shows Hannan getting out of his handcuffs. He kicks the door of the cruiser and yells curses before he is secured again. Hannan is charged with willful trespass, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. Flanagan got a court summons for willful trespass.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha spoke on WPRO radio about the incident. He called it “alcohol related.” He noted that Flanagan felt “remorseful” but would receive a “suspension without pay” as a “strong sanction” from his office. He added, “She’s put me in a bad position. She’s embarrassed herself. She’s humiliated herself. She treated the Newport Police Department horribly”.

The Attorney General’s Office confirmed it is reviewing the situation. This review will decide if more disciplinary action is needed. Flanagan has served in the AG’s Criminal Division Appellate Unit for seven years.