Providence drops probationary officer charged in assault

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The city of Providence has decided not to hire a probationary police officer who has pleaded not guilty to assaulting his girlfriend.

Deputy Chief Thomas Verdi says Craig Amado is no longer a city officer.

Authorities say the 28-year-old Amado hit his girlfriend for using his car without his permission.

Police say Amado sent her a threatening text which escalated and resulted in him slapping her multiple times.

He is free on personal recognizance.

The Providence Journal reports that officers have a year-long probationary period when it is easier to fire them. Amado had been an officer since June.

A message was left with Amado’s attorney.