PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Leaders of the state Senate on Wednesday took the first step in trying to expel the Senate's minority whip, who was indicted on charges of extorting a teenage legislative page for sex. I certainly respect his right to due process, and the proceedings contemplated in the Senate were not being taken lightly,” Ruggerio’s statement read, adding that Kettle’s actions were “unlike any I have witnessed during my time in the Senate.” Algiere’s statement also acknowledged Kettle’s request for due process and asserted that the Senate has “an obligation to provide a safe work environment for all employees.”

According to WPRI, former House Rep. for District 41 Michael Marcello said he is considering running for Kettle’s empty seat in 2018. This would have been an unprecedented move for the State legislature, which has not expelled a member using Article VI since 1843, according to the Providence Journal. A news release announcing the legislation said Kettle and his lawyer would be offered the chance to present a defense at that hearing. Bipartisan legislation was introduced in the Senate to expel Republican Sen. Nicholas Kettle, who was arrested last week and was charged with extorting a male page for sex on two occasions in 2011 and with video voyeurism that involved trading naked photos of his ex-girlfriend and a New Hampshire woman taken without their consent. State elections records show the page ran against Kettle as an independent in 2014, three years after the extortion is alleged to have occurred. The indictment names the page, but The Associated Press does not identify people who may be victims of sex crimes unless they come forward and agree to have their names published. The pages, who usually range in age from 15 through college age, help lawmakers with errands at the Rhode Island Statehouse. Kettle released a statement yesterday regarding his resignation, thanking his constituents for the privilege of seven years of service. He added his thanks to people who he said had supported him during this time “as it is clear that they understand that I am innocent until proven guilty.”

“I am extremely disappointed in Senate leadership on both sides of the aisle because Mr. Algiere and Mr. Ruggerio do not appear to understand the importance of due process as a cornerstone of our legal system,” Kettle wrote.
Rhode Island State Senator Nicholas Kettle resigns after being indicted on charges of extortion and voyeurism.