CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Vincent Turchetta, the dean of students at Cranston Public Schools, was arrested early Monday morning on suspicion of driving under the influence.
At approximately 12:45 a.m., Cranston police found Turchetta, 61, passed out behind the wheel of his vehicle at the intersection of Park and Reservoir avenues. Officers discovered his car in the westbound turn lane, with two vehicles stuck behind him. The car’s brake lights were on, indicating his foot was still pressing the brake pedal.
After knocking on the window, an officer opened the door to wake Turchetta. He was then instructed to park the vehicle and sit on the curb. Police noted a strong smell of alcohol and signs of intoxication. Turchetta admitted to consuming three beers at a party in Warwick before the incident but refused to take a field sobriety test.
Turchetta is charged with DUI (first offense, BAC unknown) and refusal to submit to a chemical test. He was arraigned before a justice of the peace and is scheduled to appear in court on April 9.
Cranston Public Schools confirmed Turchetta’s employment but declined to comment further on the matter, citing personnel confidentiality.
