Superior Court judge retires, opens up lifetime appointment

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - A lifetime seat has opened up on Rhode Island’s main trial court with the retirement of a judge.

Superior Court Judge Bennett Gallo notified Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo that he was retiring Feb. 28 after 11 years on the bench. The Providence Journal reports the 74-year-old Gallo began his term in 2008 after being nominated by Republican Gov. Donald Carcieri.

Courts spokesman Craig Berke says Gallo’s pension will be about $138,295.

Gallo’s retirement creates an opening for a coveted lifetime position, earning a $165,545 base salary.

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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.providencejournal.com