RI Correctional Officer Carchia Dies From COVID-19
Providence RI Jan 1, 2022 The Rhode Island Department of Corrections announced on Thursday night that Correctional Officer Richard Carchia passed away as a result of complications from COVID-19.
Director Patricia A. Coyne-Fague, Esq. said in a statement, “I am very sorry to report that Correctional Officer Richard Carchia passed away [yesterday] from COVID-19 related complications. [Officer] Carchia joined the RIDOC in 2000 and worked at the Medium Security facility.”
This is the second Correctional Officer who has passed from COVID-19 complications.
Lt. Russell Freeman passed away on December 14 of last year.
Coworkers described 55-year-old Carchia as someone with a “quiet demeanor” who would give someone in need the shirt off his back.
“He was very helpful, a very genuine person,” said a Correctional Officer who knew him well, according to the DOC release. The officer added, “Whether he knew you or not, if you needed his help, he was there for you. He will be sorely missed.”
Coyne-Fague said, “Please do not hesitate to reach out to Peer Support if you need someone to talk to. This is a terrible loss for all of us. We will all keep Officer Carchia’s wife and family in our thoughts.”
Carchia, who lived in Smithfield, was originally from Warwick and is survived by his wife Cindy, and children Jillian, Raymond and Rayna.
Funeral arrangements will be announced once they are known.
Coyne-Fague added, “These are difficult times. Please be safe and take care of each other.”
