Attorney General Peter F. Neronha has announced the sentencing of Chandler Cardente, a 30-year-old resident of Cranston, in a high-profile case involving child molestation. Cardente was sentenced to serve 35 years at the Adult Correctional Institutions after pleading guilty in Providence County Superior Court to sexually assaulting a victim under the age of 14.
During a court hearing on May 1, 2025, presided over by Superior Court Justice David Cruise, Cardente entered a plea of nolo contendere to six counts of first-degree child molestation. Justice Cruise ruled a 60-year sentence for Cardente, with 35 years to be served in prison, along with 60 years of probation. A no-contact order was established between Cardente and the victim, coupled with requirements for Cardente to register as a sex offender, attend counseling, and be subject to community supervision.
Attorney General Neronha commented on the case, stating, "This defendant deserves every bit of the lengthy sentence he received for his terrible crimes." Neronha acknowledged the victim's bravery, noting, "The young victim in this case demonstrated incredible courage by telling her story in her exceptional victim impact statement. She is an inspiration for victims everywhere."
The state was ready to present evidence that the assault took place on December 10, 2021, in Warwick, Rhode Island, after Cardente contacted the victim through social media.
Burrillville Police Chief Colonel Stephen J. Lynch expressed his gratitude for the combined efforts of the law enforcement agencies and the Attorney General's Office, emphasizing the impact of such cases on victims and communities.
The crucial investigation and prosecution were led by Assistant Attorney General Shannon Signore, Detective Ryan Hughes of the Burrillville Police Department, and Detective Anthony McHugh of the Cranston Police Department.