CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. -- Mayor James A. Diossa has hired two young lawyers with strong political ties to prosecute code enforcement violations and misdemeanor cases in District Court, Providence.
Nicholas J. Hemond and Lisette M. Gomes, both 26, began doing contract work with no benefits for the city last month. Diossa said the combined maximum they can make this year is $30,000; $10,000 less than former state Rep. Jon Brien, D-Woonsocket, who did the same work since August 2011.
Brien also did not receive health benefits.
Richard E. Kirby, who was appointed city solicitor during the receivership, will remain as the head of the city Law Department.
Hemond, a State House lobbyist, served as spokesman for Frank T. Caprio during his unsuccessful 2010 campaign for governor. Last fall, he played a key role in House Speaker Gordon D. Fox's reelection.