Dancing Cop Coming to East Providence?

By Bob Rodericks

Crescent Park Carousel Greets Santa, Sleigh Rides for Kids Today:

The 9th annual Crescent Park Tree lighting took place today, Sunday November 29. The annual event was more popular than ever with hundreds of families attending on a beautiful weather day. Before the carousel tree was lighted, the crowds greeted Santa Claus who arrived aboard an East Providence fire truck and lines were long all day for a ride on a horse-drawn wagon. Children had pictures taken with Santa in one of the carousel's original carriages festively decorated for the holidays.

"We'd like to take a moment to thank each and everyone who came out and celebrated our 9th Annual Tree Lighting today. Despite the little hiccup, the spirit of the community and tree-lighting tradition went on even better than anticipated. We hope you all got to enjoy a horse & buggy ride, some treats and refreshments as well as a visit with Santa. Hope to see you in the Spring! Have a very Merry Christmas as well as a Happy New Year," said a statement from carousel officials in a statement.

The "hiccup" mentioned in the carousel statement referred to a planned protest today by members of East Providence's minority community who were upset with the apparent hiring of Tony Lepore Sr, known as the "Dancing Cop." Lepore, who is a retired Providence police officer, was recently let go from his duties as a holiday traffic cop in Providence. Lepore was let go by Providence because he organized a protest against a Dunkin Donuts worker who got involved in a "Black Lives Matter" controversy.

According to published reports elsewhere, East Providence has hired Lepore to direct traffic in East Providence during the holiday season. "I will be in East Providence with a smile, and happier than ever," said Lepore "I will be on the side of City Hall. Thank you Mayor Tommy Rose You`re the best," said Lepore in a statement. Published reports have East Providence paying Lepore as much as $2,000 for his role through Christmas Eve.

As word of a planned protest circulated around town, East Providence canceled Lepore's scheduled appearance at today's carousel tree lighting. "I Have An Announcement to make; I just got a call from Mayor Tommy Rose of East Providence. He informed me that there was to be a demonstration put on by various organizations affiliated with Black Lives Matter. This event is supposed to be a festive holiday experience for children and their families. The Mayor left the decision to me, as to whether or not to appear. Because of my concern for the children`s safety, I have decided to cancel. It is unfortunate that leftist agendas must spoil this happy event. It is evident that these groups are biased. To all those who were waiting for me, have a wonderful time. See you soon!" said Lepore in a written statement.

"With the children's best interest and safety for all, we have decided to cancel The Dancing Cop's performance at today's Carousel event due to potential protesters who have agreed to desist," said Mayor Tom Rose.

The day's event went on without any difficulty although several people were there early today to mount a protest if the "Dancing Cop" showed up. It is unclear when Lepore was hired, if at all. Under East Providence city charter, the city manager hires and fires, not the city council. In fact, the city council can not engage in personnel decisions. Lepore has stated that he was hired and will get a sum of $2,000. However, an item, "Holiday Entertainment and Performance" is on the council agenda for Tuesday night's meeting on December 1st. "Does it mean that East Providence supports his opinion. What kind of message does that send to the minorities of East Providence," said Joseph Tavares, who has been active in city politics for years.