East Providence Police Department Swears In Three New Officers

From left, Mayor Roberto L. DaSilva, Acting Police Chief Michael J. Rapoza, Officer Ian Richardson, Officer Jacob Scorpio, Officer Zachary Souza and Major Andy Benoit during a swearing-in ceremony on Friday. (Photo Courtesy East Providence Police Department)

EAST PROVIDENCE — The East Providence Police Department welcomed three new officers to its ranks during a swearing-in ceremony Friday afternoon, adding a combination of experience and new talent to the department.

Officer Ian Richardson joins the department as a lateral transfer, while Officers Zachary Souza and Jacob Scorpio were sworn in by Mayor Roberto L. DaSilva following their graduation from the Rhode Island Municipal Police Academy.

Officer Ian Richardson

Officer Richardson grew up in​ Burrillville and graduated from Burrillville High School in 2016. After high school, he worked as an assistant counselor at a residential treatment center for at-risk juveniles.

He earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice from the Community College of Rhode Island and completed additional coursework toward a bachelor’s degree at Rhode Island College before entering the police academy.

During four years of prior service as a police officer, Richardson earned certifications in Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement and Taser Instruction.

Richardson values the dynamic nature of law enforcement and looks forward to serving the East Providence community.

Officer Zachary Souza

Officer Souza is a lifelong East Providence resident and a 2019 graduate of East Providence High School. After entering the workforce, he remained closely involved in the community by serving as an assistant boys soccer coach at Riverside Middle School.

Outside of work, Souza values time spent with his fiancée and their two dogs.

Officer Souza is driven by a strong passion for service and community and looks forward to giving back to the community that helped shape who he is today.

Officer Jacob Scorpio

Officer Scorpio was raised in Barrington and graduated from Barrington High School in 2020. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Roger Williams University in 2024.

Prior to attending the police academy, he worked for the Town of Bristol Parks & Recreation Department and in hospital security at Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River.

Officer Scorpio is motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference through public service.

Acting Chief Michael J. Rapoza congratulates Officers Richardson, Souza and Scorpio and welcomes them to the East Providence Police Department.

“These three officers each possess a strong desire to serve, and we’re extremely excited to welcome them to the East Providence Police Department,” said Acting Chief Rapoza. “Two are beginning their careers with strong ties to the community, and one brings valuable experience from prior service. Together, they strengthen our ability to serve the people of East Providence.”

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Acting Chief Michael J. Rapoza speaks during a swearing-in ceremony on Friday. (Photo Courtesy East Providence Police Department)

Mayor Roberto L. DaSilva speaks during a swearing-in ceremony on Friday. (Photo Courtesy East Providence Police Department)