North Providence Man Sentenced for Arson and Assault on Federal Officers
PROVIDENCE, RI – Kevin Colantonio, a 36-year-old man from North Providence, has been sentenced to over six years in federal prison following his guilty plea for setting fires outside Shiloh Gospel Temple Ministries, a predominantly Black church, and assaulting two federal correctional officers.
U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell Jr. imposed the sentence after Colantonio admitted to multiple charges, including malicious damage by means of fire and obstruction of the free exercise of religious beliefs. On February 11, 2024, Colantonio ignited five fires around the church using gasoline purchased just moments before at a nearby gas station. While the fires were quickly extinguished by local police, they caused significant damage.
Evidence collected included clothing found at Colantonio’s residence that tested positive for accelerants, alongside surveillance footage linking him to the crime. While in custody, he further assaulted two federal corrections officers, leading to additional charges.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon condemned Colantonio’s actions, stating they demonstrated a disregard for both faith and law enforcement. His sentencing concludes a year-long investigation by federal and local authorities.
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