Projo Politics Blog

The State House building superintendent, Salvatore “Sam” DeVincenzo returned to work Friday after being placed on administrative leave for two weeks.

Department of Administration Director Beverly Najarian was vague about the initial decision: “Sam has been put on administrative leave for a week with pay while we investigate some circumstances,” she said in late August.

The suspension came days after the three night janitors resigned.

Last week, however, the Department of Administration decided to extend DeVincenzo’s leave another week. DOA Executive Director Ronald N. Renaud refused to say whether the additional week off was paid or not.

“We have taken appropriate disciplinary action for actions against the interests of the state in his capacity as state building and grounds coordinator, the details of which are confidential,” Renaud told Political Scene last week. “Mr. DeVincenzo has not been terminated.”

Political Scene spoke to DeVincenzo Friday afternoon in his office in the State House basement.

He confirmed that the second week of administrative leave was, in fact, unpaid. He declined to discuss the specifics of the case.

“I’m glad I’m back so I can get this whole thing behind us,” he said. “I just took a tough rap. I really, really took a tough rap.”

He continued: “I really love the State House. I put in more time here than my own house. I wouldn’t do anything against the governor. I love working for the governor.”

DeVincenzo has been on the state payroll since 1975. He earns $75,363.60 a year.

Renaud said last week that the investigation is complete and he considers the matter closed.

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