Warwick Firefighter Charged With Video Voyeurism
The city has placed the employee on paid administrative leave following the criminal charge.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Warwick authorities have charged a city firefighter with video voyeurism following an investigation. Matthew Cavanagh, a city employee since 2016, allegedly recorded a woman without her consent.
Why it matters
The incident has triggered an immediate internal review regarding the status of the accused firefighter. The city is currently managing the personnel action while the criminal case proceeds.
Matthew Cavanagh is facing a charge of video voyeurism and was released on $50,000 personal recognizance bail. The city has placed him on paid administrative leave in accordance with the local firefighters' union contract.
The players
Matthew Cavanagh
He is a Warwick firefighter who has been employed by the city since 2016.
The details
Prosecutors allege that Cavanagh recorded a woman during sexual intercourse without her consent on October 12, 2026. The department moved to suspend the firefighter after the charge was filed.
Timeline
Cavanagh began his employment with the city in 2016.
The alleged video voyeurism incident took place on October 12, 2026.
Reports regarding the criminal charges were published on October 27, 2026.
Legal Context
The disciplinary process governing this case is dictated by the city firefighters' union contract. This framework mandates how the city manages employee conduct and administrative status following criminal allegations.
The city has taken formal disciplinary action to remove the individual from duty during the pendency of the investigation. Residents can expect the legal process to continue through the local court system.
The takeaway
Legal proceedings regarding video voyeurism often rely on strict procedural compliance and evidence gathering. Individuals should remain aware of local reporting channels if they believe their privacy has been violated.
Further reading
Learn more about local investigations on the Sex Crimes page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WJAR.
