In December 2021, Officer Richard Edwards Petersen was involved in a domestic violence incident where he assaulted a woman, causing injuries to her neck, arms, and wrists. The assault occurred in the presence of three children. Petersen was charged with aggravated assault, violating a protective order, and domestic violence in the presence of a child. He pleaded guilty to reduced charges and was sentenced to 60 days in jail, with credit for 45 days already served. He was dismissed from the Smithfield Police Department in December 2021.
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