Raising the Bar RI Environmental Police Receive RIPAC Accreditation

Published on Tuesday, September 22, 2026

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announces that its Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) has received Rhode Island Police Accreditation Commission (RIPAC) accreditation. The program is a department-initiated process by which police departments in RI voluntarily strive to meet and maintain the highest standards of professionalism. With performance and operational standards spanning across training, management, and internal oversight, the accreditation process provides a framework for maintaining these standards of professional practice in law enforcement.

“DEM Environmental Police Officers are dedicated to maintaining public safety and fostering positive relationships with the public to protect our state’s natural resources, all while honoring public trust,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “This accomplishment is a result of months of hard work by Detective Jackie Peterson, Lt. Thomas Silvia, and several other members of our Division of Law Enforcement. Congratulations to all who had a part in helping achieve this meaningful designation!”

“The RIPAC accreditation reinforces our commitment to all Rhode Island residents and visitors that RI Environmental Police are committed to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability in law enforcement,” said Chief Dean Hoxsie of DLE. “Environmental Police Officers are devoted to the role that we play each day in serving the State of Rhode Island.”

 DLE’s mission is to protect the natural resources of the state and to ensure compliance with all environmental conservation laws through law enforcement and education. Among their many duties, RI Environmental Police Officers (EPOs) promote boating safety, counter poaching, and monitor RI’s waters and natural spaces. By responding to emergencies both on land and water, EPOs are dedicated to the care of our natural resources and those who recreate in the Ocean State.

 For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Sign up here to receive the latest press releases, news, and events from DEM's Public Affairs Office to your inbox.