Media Contact: Sergeant John Allen 444-1064
Seven year old inured in rollover accident in Exeter resulting in arrest for Driving Under the Influence
Colonel Steven G. O'Donnell, Superintendent of the Rhode Island State Police and Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety, announces that at 12:15 AM, on March 2, 2013, Troopers responded to a call for a motor vehicle accident on Route 102, at the intersection with South Road, in the Town of Exeter. Upon arrival, Troopers observed that the vehicle had rolled over and came to rest on the operator's side. The operator had to be extricated by members of the Exeter Fire and Rescue and was later transported to Rhode Island Hospital for minor injuries.
The investigation revealed that there were three passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident that were able to exit on their own accord. One was identified as the operator's seven year old son, who was transported to Hasbro Children's Hospital for minor injuries. A second passenger was also transported to Rhode Island Hospital for minor injuries. The investigation further revealed that all were wearing seatbelts at the time of the accident.
The operator is identified as Shawn Peno, age 40, of 30 Messer Street, Providence, R.I... Mr. Peno was arrested at the scene and consented to provide a blood sample at Rhode Island Hospital. Pending release from the hospital, Mr. Peno will be transported to the Wickford Barracks and arraigned on the charge of Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Mr. Peno will be the fourth subject charged by the State Police with DWI during a twenty four hour period.
Colonel O'Donnell states "This arrest is yet another example of why we are working with the Governor and legislative leaders to make this behavior a felony. Our greatest resource is our children and we should do as much as possible to protect them".
As always, the Rhode Island State Police will continue to aggressively enforce the motor vehicle laws with increased emphasis on speeding, driving while impaired, aggressive driving, texting violations, seat belt, and child restraint violations.
Motorists are reminded that they can immediately report dangerous drivers or hazardous roadway conditions to the police by dialing 911 or *77 on your cell phone.