AGP Executive Report

Cranston Tragedy: A Cranston mother, 62-year-old Ana Maria Angelosanto, was charged with first-degree murder after police say she killed her 21-year-old daughter, Alexandra Straccia, who had severe autism, then tried to take her own life. Courts & Homelessness Funding: A federal judge in Providence blocked a Trump administration move to rewrite homelessness grant rules, keeping protections for Rhode Island housing providers and the Continuum of Care funding stream. Privacy Fight Over Flock Cameras: Narragansett voted unanimously to end its Flock Safety license-plate reader contract and remove cameras, joining South Kingstown in rejecting the privacy tradeoff. Public Health Alert: The USDA issued a Rhode Island-included alert for certain meat and poultry products containing FDA-regulated jalapeños that may be contaminated with Salmonella. Local Environment: Rhode Island reporting highlights concerns that a tire chemical can wash into stormwater and threaten native brook trout. Housing Development: Westerly’s Sandpiper Landing project off Chamber Way is moving forward, including 25% affordable units. Sports: Rhode Island FC beat Colorado Springs Switchbacks 2-0 in a USL Championship rematch.

Homelessness Funding Fight: A federal judge in Providence blocked the Trump administration’s 2026 overhaul of homelessness grant rules, keeping Continuum of Care money flowing to Rhode Island housing providers. Flock Cameras Backlash: South Kingstown voted unanimously to end its Flock license plate reader program after a privacy clash, and the ACLU is pushing Cumberland to cancel its contract too. Public Safety & Courts: A Rhode Island mother was charged with murdering her 21-year-old daughter, who had severe autism, in a case police say involved a fatal act followed by an attempted suicide. Housing Development: Work has begun on Sandpiper Landing, a Westerly project off Chamber Way/Post Road with 25% affordable units. Environment: A new report warns a tire chemical linked to road runoff could threaten Rhode Island brook trout. Community Calendar: The 41st Charlestown Seafood Festival runs through Sunday with seafood, music, and family activities. Weather: Severe thunderstorms were flagged for parts of New England, including Rhode Island, with heat and humidity continuing.

Water Quality Watch: URI is set to study manganese in Rhode Island drinking water, but local officials say public systems look clear while warning that homeowner-drilled wells may need testing. Surveillance Debate: South Kingstown and Narragansett have moved away from Flock license-plate cameras, and the fight is now spilling into broader constitutional and privacy questions. State Politics: After a fraught confirmation fight, the U.S. Senate voted 50-49 to confirm Todd Blanche as attorney general, with only two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. Homelessness Funding: A federal court blocked HUD’s latest homelessness funding move, ruling the agency violated federal law by changing terms without proper public input. Community & Health: Rhode Island Blood Center opens its first Massachusetts donor center in Swansea, expanding access as local inventory remains tight. Local Life: Lincoln Little League’s 12U team heads to the Metro Regional in Bristol, CT after winning the RI title. Weather: Expect warm, humid conditions with a chance of afternoon/evening showers or thunderstorms.

Homelessness Funding Fight: A Rhode Island federal judge blocked HUD from shifting federal homelessness money away from “housing first,” striking down HUD’s 2026 Continuum of Care funding notice after finding the agency broke federal law by changing terms without proper public input. Local Infrastructure: Barrington is set to move forward on federal-aid sidewalk work along Massasoit Avenue and New Meadow Road, with RIDOT coordinating timing so both projects can be built together. Public Health Watch: DEM and RIDOH confirmed Jamestown Canyon Virus detection in Tiverton, while also noting additional West Nile Virus detections statewide. Privacy Pushback: Glocester voted to remove its Flock Safety license plate cameras after residents protested, even as officials warned ending the contract early could cost taxpayers. Legal/Workplace: The 1st Circuit upheld limits on Rhode Island’s “Dealer Law,” ruling it can’t be used to block a nearby out-of-state dealership. Elections & Ads: Rhode Island’s attorney general race is heating up with TV ads, while the state election chief warned voters about increasingly sophisticated election scams.

Heat & Storm Watch: A second day of extreme heat and high humidity has Rhode Island and parts of New England under heat advisories, with “feels like” temps in the low 90s and a chance of brief afternoon thunderstorms. Public Health: Jamestown Canyon Virus was detected in Tiverton, alongside additional West Nile Virus findings in mosquito samples across several Rhode Island communities; officials say WNV risk remains high statewide. Local Safety & Crime: A Woonsocket man faces murder charges after police say he killed his pregnant girlfriend in their apartment, then fled and was arrested after a river crossing. Energy Bills: Rhode Island’s Office of Energy Resources filed a petition to route $28 million in RGGI auction proceeds into winter electric bill credits for residential customers. Environment & Community: Bristol and RIDEM are rolling out a free self-service pump-out barge on the Kickemuit River to help boaters keep sewage out of the water. Politics & Privacy: A coalition of mostly Democratic states sued over a federal rule requiring sensitive personal data from TANF recipients, arguing it violates privacy protections. Sports/Business: A multi-restaurant ordering platform is set to open next week at Blue Back Square, and a Siemens Mobile eXplore Tour brought advanced manufacturing tech to Pawtucket.

Police Discipline in Providence: A disciplinary panel says Sgt. Joseph Hanley can return to work after a 45-day suspension for assaulting a handcuffed prisoner—Providence says it will appeal, calling the punishment too light. Immigration Court Win: Federal Judge Mary S. McElroy ordered ICE to release Cambodian refugee Chansareth Hong, saying authorities violated a settlement by detaining him again without 14 days’ written notice. Labor Action at CVS (Wakefield): CVS pharmacy staff walked out after a strike-sanction vote, citing staffing and patient-safety concerns and saying the company hasn’t bargained with their locations. Public Safety—E-scooters and E-bikes: Barrington police warn of a surge in ER visits after crashes, urging families to restrict use and push safer riding. Coastal Resilience: Jamestown lighthouse officials warn erosion is threatening access and long-term plans, with funding still a major hurdle. Community & Events: Leapfest returns to East Greenwich with international airborne teams competing; and Rhode Island FC hosts Colorado Springs Switchbacks at Centreville Bank Stadium.

Business Growth: Providence Business News named Warwick-based Vertikal6 to its 2026 Fastest Growing Companies list, highlighting managed IT, cybersecurity, and AI services as demand for compliance and digital transformation keeps rising. Local Politics & Ethics: The Rhode Island Ethics Commission voted to appeal a Superior Court ruling that cleared the way for former House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi to pursue a Supreme Court vacancy. Public Safety & Privacy: Narragansett moved to end its Flock surveillance camera program after residents and council members raised concerns about how the system is used and what it collects. Federal Legal Fight: North Carolina AG Jeff Jackson joined a 24-state lawsuit challenging Trump’s latest tariffs, arguing they exceed legal authority and raise costs for families. Health & Weather: Heat advisories are in effect across parts of New England including Rhode Island as humidity pushes heat indices near the upper 90s; Rhode Island’s forecast calls for warm, humid conditions with only a slight chance of late-day storms. Community & Culture: Tiverton’s Four Corners will host the Chris Monti Band Aug. 22, with proceeds supporting Four Corners Arts Center programming.

Autonomous Defense Tech: Rhode Island’s Havoc AI says its autonomous maritime boats—built in North Kingstown—have been used by the U.S. military to find targets in the Pacific, with more use reported in the Iran conflict. Public Safety & Crime: Providence police are investigating after a woman was found dead inside a parked vehicle at Rhode Island College; Warren police also reported an ambulance crash that sent a driver and a patient to hospitals. Elections & Voting Access: Common Cause Rhode Island is hosting an Aug. 11 training on protecting the vote amid federal threats, including how volunteers monitor polling places. State Government Accountability: An R.I. DHS supervisor pleaded guilty to SNAP benefits fraud and conspiracy, admitting she accessed EBT info and changed PINs without permission. Education: Rhode Island says more students are taking AP exams, with preliminary data showing a big jump in exam counts and more scores at the “qualified” level. Local Culture: Onset’s renovated bandshell is back in action for the “Summer of Love” concert series after construction delays. Housing/Real Estate: A Barrington waterfront home in Alfred Drowne sold for $2.3M, a neighborhood record.

Coastal Safety Win: Hampton Beach lifeguards won the New England Lifesaving Championship for an eighth straight year, beating teams from four states despite gray skies and a heavy downpour. Legal Fight Over Welfare Privacy: More than 20 states, including Rhode Island, sued to block the federal government from sharing personal data of millions of low-income benefits recipients, arguing the move targets families instead of helping them. Tariff Pressure on Rhode Island: A 25-state coalition, including Rhode Island, challenged Trump’s latest tariffs as an illegal “pretext” after earlier tariff efforts were struck down. Health Care Under Attack: Wisconsin and other states joined lawsuits over Affordable Care Act changes that could raise costs and reduce coverage; Rhode Island is part of the broader push to protect access. Local Politics: Pawtucket’s School Committee primary is set for Sept. 9, with eight Democrats competing for seven seats. Public Health Access: University Orthopedics offered free fall sports physicals for 120+ student-athletes, aiming to ease back-to-school appointment bottlenecks. Road Violence on I-95: New video shows a crash and fight on I-95 in Pawtucket, with multiple people taken to the hospital.

Local Fair Spotlight: The Washington County Fair is gearing up for its 60th anniversary Aug. 12–16 with new attractions like free line-dancing lessons, Rhode Island Circus Space performances, and the return of the Zipper ride. Public Safety: Rhode Island State Police say three men were arrested after a July 5 rollover crash and a large brawl on I-95 in Pawtucket; more arrests are expected. Coastal Conservation: Westerly is turning Misquamicut parcels near Winnapaug Pond into a new public access and conservation area, with parking and seasonal limits planned. Statehouse Watch: Rhode Island’s Ethics Commission voted to appeal a ruling clearing former House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi to seek a Supreme Court seat, keeping the revolving-door question alive. Elections & City Hall: Former Providence mayor Jorge Elorza endorsed David Morales in the Democratic mayoral primary against incumbent Brett Smiley. Economy/Policy: Rhode Island AG Peter Neronha joined a multi-state lawsuit to block a Trump administration policy that would let federal agencies access sensitive TANF recipient data. Justice System: A Johnston eminent domain fight is back in court, with a show-cause hearing scheduled after owners asked for contempt over continued condemnation steps.

Tariff Fight in Federal Court: Rhode Island is among 25 states suing the Trump administration over new “forced labor” tariffs on 60 trading partners and the EU, arguing the move is a pretext to revive duties the Supreme Court already struck down and asking for a halt and refunds. Privacy at the Statehouse: A coalition of Democratic-led states also sued to block the federal government from accessing sensitive TANF recipient data, including Social Security numbers and immigration status. RI Election Reminder: Portsmouth voters get a clear deadline: Aug. 10 at 4 p.m. for new registrations/updates, plus poll worker training at 10 a.m. Local Tech & Privacy: Narragansett ended its contract with Flock cameras after a city council vote. Health Data Breach: Lifespan Physicians Group is under investigation after a breach exposed data tied to about 290,000 patients in Massachusetts and Vermont. Energy Savings for Manufacturers: A new Rhode Island net metering initiative links local hydro power to commercial users to cut electricity bills. Cost of School Starts: A Rhode Island-focused look puts the typical first-day school supply haul at about $175 per child, with families absorbing most of the increase. Providence Housing Agenda: Mayor Brett Smiley lays out a second-term plan centered on more housing, renter help, and neighborhood business support.

Nonprofit Funding: Beacon Bank says it put more than $600,000 into 180+ Rhode Island and regional nonprofits in Q2, including groups like Capital Good Fund and YMCA of Pawtucket. Health Care Access: Wood River Health marked National Health Center Week and 50 years of care in southern Rhode Island, highlighting services that don’t depend on insurance status. Tariffs Fight: A coalition of 25 states, including Rhode Island, sued the Trump administration over new Section 301 tariffs on dozens of countries, arguing they’re a pretext to restart import taxes the Supreme Court already rejected. State Infrastructure Savings: The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority refinanced bonds, projecting about $11.6 million in gross savings to reinvest in bridge improvements. Elections & Oversight: Rhode’s Secretary of State reminded voters about Aug. 10 registration and disaffiliation deadlines, and the Inspector General Independent Advisory Commission opened applications for the new inspector general role (due Aug. 21). Public Health: Rhode Island raised its West Nile risk level to “high” after more mosquito samples tested positive. Higher Ed Leadership: Brown University President Christina Paxson announced she’ll step down at the end of the 2026-27 academic year.

Antitrust & Health Policy: Rhode Island is part of a 43-state coalition led by AG William Tong announcing a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic-drug price inflation and reduced competition, with total payments to state enforcers estimated at about $469 million if approved. Transportation Disruptions: RITBA warns Mount Hope Bridge will see major delays Aug. 5 with traffic held both directions during large lifts, plus ongoing alternating lane closures and Sunday surface repairs. Public Health: Rhode Island raised West Nile virus risk to “high” after positive mosquito samples in Providence, North Providence, and East Providence; officials say it signals heightened mosquito activity, not confirmed human transmission yet. Local Water & Research: URI and RIDOH are launching a long-term study of manganese in drinking water, targeting both public systems and private wells. Providence Politics: Former Mayor Jorge Elorza is expected to endorse State Rep. David Morales for Providence mayor, a key boost in the race against incumbent Brett Smiley. Community & Safety Planning: Newport is joining Strong Towns’ Crash Analysis Studio to study serious crashes and push street design and policy changes. Weather: Flood warnings remain in effect as a fast-moving rain system brings heavy rain and localized flooding risk across southern New England. Environment & Science: Atlantic Shark Institute tagged a rare hammerhead off Block Island—RI’s first such tagging—adding to migration tracking efforts.

Public Health: Rhode Island raised the West Nile virus risk to high after virus was detected in mosquito samples from East Providence, North Providence, and Providence, prompting officials to urge residents to take bite-prevention steps. Housing & Courts: A federal judge voided Johnston’s eminent domain seizure of a 31-acre George Waterman Road parcel, clearing the way for a stalled 252-unit affordable housing plan while the town says it will pursue other options. Local Safety: Firefighters in Jamestown contained a rooftop solar panel fire before it spread beyond the system; no injuries were reported. Transportation Tragedy: A 26-year-old Rhode Island man died after being ejected in a two-car crash on Route 146 in Uxbridge; the other driver and passenger were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Public Safety Tech: Rhode Island State Police are installing 39 automatic license plate readers statewide under a federal-funded Flock contract, adding to a growing network with limited state rules on data retention and access. Health & Community: A new docu-series follows a Rhode Island nurse and five women through menopause and midlife health, blending expert guidance with personal stories.

Surveillance & Privacy: Rhode Island State Police are rolling out 39 new Flock license plate readers under a $597,000 federal grant, adding to a fast-growing network of cameras with no state law setting rules on how long data is kept or who can search it. Housing & Courts: A federal court struck down a Johnston, R.I. eminent domain move aimed at blocking affordable housing, saying the town lacked authority for that kind of use. Consumer Protection: Rhode Island’s AG and a coalition are urging federal regulators to reject OppFi’s bid to become a national bank, warning it could let the lender keep charging 160% APR even after RI’s 36% interest cap starts Jan. 1. Public Safety: Crews responded to a deadly crash on Route 146 in Uxbridge involving a Rhode Island man; the cause is under investigation. Community & Culture: The Newport Jazz Festival keeps rolling with Day 2 highlights at Fort Adams, while the Clifford Brown Jazz Festival runs Aug. 2–8 in Wilmington. Local Sports: Upper Deck Post 14 won the Rhode Island American Legion state title with a walkoff home run by Jack DiChiaro.

Court Watch (RI housing): A federal court ruled against a Rhode Island town’s use of eminent domain aimed at blocking a housing project tied to NIMBY concerns, saying the town lacked authority to wield the power for that purpose. Transit Update: Rhode Island’s new state budget closes RIPTA’s projected $14M operating gap for now, preventing another round of service cuts even though earlier route reductions remain. Public Safety/Guard: The Rhode Island National Guard’s Leapfest returned for its 41st year at Quonset Point, with precision parachute teams jumping from a CH-47 over Exeter. Local Sports: Upper Deck Post 14 won the Rhode Island American Legion state title for a fifth straight year, capped by Jack DiChiaro’s walkoff homer. Health & Courts (RI): Rhode Island court rulings upheld a RIPTA negligence verdict for the transit authority and addressed underinsured motorist “stacking” limits under a commercial policy. Voter Integrity: Separate reporting highlights a federal judge blocking DOJ demands for Illinois voter-roll data, underscoring limits on federal reach into state election records.