Chief's Message

Paul M. Martellini was officially sworn-in as Chief Sheriff of the Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs on October 16, 2024. He is responsible for the daily operation, policy implementation and direction of the Sheriffs, to include the custody, safety, discipline, and well-being of prisoners and defendants in state courts and other buildings. 

Chief Martellini is a 33-year veteran law enforcement officer and most recently served as the Executive Officer, second in command, of the Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs, and had served as Acting Chief Sheriff since April 2024. 

Chief Martellini joined the Rhode Island Division of Sheriffs in 2014 and was responsible for the esprit de corps of the organization, policy development, operational efficiency, planning and development, and internal affairs. 

Chief Martellini graduated from the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy in 1991 for the East Greenwich Police Department and served as a patrol officer for two years before being hired by the North Providence Police Department.  Chief Martellini rose through the ranks and retired after 22 years of service at the rank of Chief of Police.

Chief Martellini holds a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Roger Williams University, where he graduated Cum Laude.  Chief Martellini is also a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Executive Development Seminar. He was the recipient of the 2011 Attorney General’s Justice Award for commitment to justice/leadership.