FCC investigates unlicensed radio station in Providence

Rhode IslandS Public Transport Journey: Before RIPTA

Before the rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) became a familiar sight across the state, Rhode Island’s communities relied on a diverse network of transportation systems. Looking back, the evolution of public transportation in Rhode Island reveals a fascinating story of innovation, adaptation, and the changing needs of a growing population.

The story begins with the explosive growth of trolley lines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These horse-drawn carriages, later electrified, crisscrossed cities and towns, connecting neighborhoods and fueling commerce. “Picture the vibrant scenes of bustling streetcar lines,” shared historian [Insert Historian Name], “They were a lifeline for workers, students, and families, offering affordable and efficient transportation throughout the region.”

The impact of these trolleys extended far beyond mere convenience. They fueled suburbanization, allowing people to live farther from downtown centers while still accessing jobs and amenities. The intricate network of tracks and lines became woven into the fabric of Rhode Island’s urban and regional identity.

However, the rise of the automobile in the mid-20th century presented a notable challenge to public transit systems. Increased car ownership brought with it a changing landscape of transportation needs and preferences. Funding challenges, outdated infrastructure, and competition from private vehicles all contributed to a decline in ridership for trolleys and streetcars.

By the late 1960s, the era of widespread trolley service had come to an end in Rhode Island. Many lines were decommissioned, tracks were dismantled, and the iconic streetcars faded into memory. This period marked a turning point in the history of public transportation in the state, paving the way for the advancement of modern bus systems and the eventual establishment of RIPTA.

The legacy of Rhode Island’s early public transportation systems, however, endures. The memories they evoke, the stories they tell, and the historical landmarks that remain serve as a reminder of the vital role public transit has played in shaping the state’s advancement. Understanding this history provides valuable insights into the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing public transportation in Rhode Island today.

The Vanishing Broadcast: FCC’s Hunt for an Unlicensed Rhode Island station

Summer 2025. Providence, Rhode Island. Agents from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) were on a mission: to track down an unauthorized broadcaster. Equipped with advanced direction-finding technology, they meticulously searched the Mount Pleasant neighborhood, their vehicle weaving through its quaint streets lined with historic duplexes. Their technology, like a beacon on a trail, led them to a distinctive two-story apartment building on Hendrick Street. Perched on a corner, it boasted a commanding view of the Rhode Island State House.

Today, the building sports an unusual antenna perched atop its roof. A slender,white shaft,roughly two feet long,stretches directly skyward,seemingly a silent sentinel against the backdrop of the city.

A resident, living in the adjacent garage, confirmed her presence within the building when a reporter visited. while she remained unaware of any radio broadcasts originating from within, she wisely steered the reporter towards the FCC agent who had previously sent a letter. This individual, David C. Dombrowski, holds the prominent position of the FCC’s regional director of enforcement.

Radio Free? Not So Fast. The Rise of Unauthorized Broadcasting

The crackle of static, followed by a burst of music – a nostalgic throwback for some, a legal headache for others. In January 2023, the FCC sent a warning letter to mirlande Lafortune, owner of a Providence property, regarding an unlicensed transmission emanating from her home. Operating on 97.1 FM, the station was flagged as a potential violation of the Interaction Act of 1934, with hefty fines looming as an inevitable result. The FCC has a specific name for this type of unauthorized broadcasting: pirate radio.

Pirate radio is not a new phenomenon. The term evokes images of 1960s British “pirate radio” stations broadcasting rock and pop music from ships anchored in international waters, defiantly challenging the limitations of the state-controlled BBC.

This spirit of independent broadcasting continues today. In the 1990s,stephen Dunifer,an American radio enthusiast,made headlines with his “Radio Free Berkeley” station in California. Armed with a mobile transmitter, Dunifer broadcast rock music and political commentary, openly challenging goverment restrictions on the airwaves.

In recent years, the accessibility of inexpensive online radio transmitters has further fueled the pirate radio scene. The technology has empowered individuals and communities, ofen immigrant groups and hobbyists, to establish their own stations. These stations often fill gaps in existing programming or provide a voice to underrepresented communities.

While the allure of free speech and independent curation is undeniable, pirate radio operates in a legal gray zone. FCC regulations mandate licensing for all broadcast stations, citing the need to manage the finite radio spectrum and prevent interference. Even small-scale pirate radio stations,operating on unused frequencies with limited range,can disrupt existing signals.

” they can also cause problems,” the FCC states, “if their signals interfere with the signals of licensed radio stations or, more seriously, interfere with aeronautical communications, such as pilots approaching airports.”

Pirate Radio: A Threat Beyond Static Noise

Hidden within the delicate tapestry of radio frequencies, a clandestine world of pirate radio stations operates, broadcasting illegally and threatening the very fabric of regulated airwaves. According to the Federal Communications commission (FCC), these rogue stations, ranging from simple talk shows to sophisticated operations with commercials and dedicated staff, operate in a legal grey area, posing a significant risk to vital communication channels.

“There is a variety of pirate radio stations out there,” explained Jeffrey Dombrowski, former FCC Enforcement Bureau Chief, in a 2019 podcast. “They can be just talk radio stations,they could be religious broadcasters,or they could be full-fledged stations that have a staffing of 20 people that make commercials,that create the jingles for their station ID,and the ones that have more money and the money advertisers are the ones that are very hard to distinguish.”

The FCC meticulously manages radio frequencies, leaving gaps to prevent interference between licensed stations. Pirate stations exploit these gaps, disrupting the carefully orchestrated balance and potentially causing widespread chaos.Imagine pilots attempting to communicate with air traffic control, only to be met with a pirate station instead. This scenario, according to Dombrowski, occurs “more than a few times a month in New York,” forcing pilots to scramble for option channels.

Recently, the FCC took a decisive stand against a Rhode Island resident broadcasting illegally on 97.1 FM. A cease-and-desist letter was issued, demanding the immediate cessation of broadcasts. Mirlande Lafortune, the property owner, was given a ten-day ultimatum; failure to comply could result in hefty fines, reaching a staggering $2,391,097.

As of last week, 97.1 FM on Hendrick Street fell silent, suggesting a successful shutdown of the pirate operation.

Fighting Back: The FCC’s Technological Arsenal

To combat this growing threat, the FCC is increasingly turning to advanced monitoring technology. What strategies are they employing?

Unlicensed Waves An Interview with David C. Dombrowski, FCC Regional Director of Enforcement

Archyde News: Mr. Dombrowski, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about the issue of pirate radio. For our readers who might not be familiar, could you explain what constitutes “pirate radio” and why it’s a concern for the FCC?

David C. Dombrowski: Certainly. Pirate radio refers to any radio broadcasting that occurs without a license from the FCC. The FCC has a very specific process for licensing broadcasters, ensuring that radio frequency operations are managed effectively and don’t interfere with each othre. Unlicensed operations disrupt this order, causing potential interference with services like air traffic control, public safety communications, and, of course, licensed radio stations.

Archyde News: It sounds complex. What are the typical consequences for those running pirate radio stations?

The allure of broadcasting,reaching out to listeners with music,news,and ideas,has always held a powerful appeal. However, the ease of setting up a radio station, thanks to advancements in technology, has led to a surge in unlicensed broadcasting, commonly known as pirate radio. While offering a platform for diverse voices, pirate radio operations raise significant concerns, prompting questions about fairness, legality, and the future of conventional broadcasting.

David C. Dombrowski, addressing the issue, acknowledges the accessibility of technology, stating, “You’re right, the technology has become more accessible, regrettably, which has led to an increase in pirate radio activity. It’s a challenge, but our teams are working diligently to identify and address these illegal broadcasts.”

Beyond the technical hurdles, the implications of unlicensed broadcasting extend far beyond mere signal interference. Dombrowski emphasizes the ethical dimension, stating, “Frankly, it comes down to fairness. Licensed radio stations invest considerable resources in complying with regulations, ensuring quality programming, and serving their communities. Pirate radio operations essentially operate outside the rules, creating an unfair playing field and undermining the integrity of a vital interaction network.”

The proliferation of pirate radio stations poses a dilemma. While offering a platform for marginalized voices and alternative programming, they operate outside the regulatory framework, potentially jeopardizing the stability and fairness of the broadcasting landscape. Dombrowski suggests a multifaceted approach to mitigate the impact, advocating for continued investment in advanced monitoring technology, public awareness campaigns to educate listeners about the importance of licensed broadcasting, and encouraging citizen reporting to authorities.He emphasizes, “Their input is invaluable in our efforts to crack down on this activity.”

The future of broadcasting hinges on striking a balance between fostering innovation and protecting the integrity of the system. Addressing the challenge of pirate radio requires a collaborative effort, involving technological advancements, public awareness, and robust enforcement mechanisms. Ultimately,ensuring a vibrant and sustainable broadcasting ecosystem necessitates a commitment to fairness,accountability,and the preservation of the vital role radio plays in our lives.

What steps can individuals take to report suspected pirate radio activity to the FCC?

Unlicensed Waves An Interview with David C. Dombrowski, FCC Regional Director of Enforcement

Archyde News: Mr. Dombrowski, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about the issue of pirate radio. For our readers who might not be familiar, could you explain what constitutes “pirate radio” adn why it’s a concern for the FCC?

david C. Dombrowski: Certainly. Pirate radio refers to any radio broadcasting that occurs without a license from the FCC. The FCC has a very specific process for licensing broadcasters, ensuring that radio frequency operations are managed effectively and don’t interfere with each othre. Unlicensed operations disrupt this order, causing potential interference with services like air traffic control, public safety communications, and, of course, licensed radio stations.

Archyde News: It sounds complex. What are the typical consequences for those running pirate radio stations?

David C. Dombrowski: Well, the consequences vary depending on the severity of the offense and the history of the individual or organization. Typically, the FCC will first issue a cease-and-desist letter, demanding that the illegal broadcasting stop. however, if the operation continues, fines can be levied, sometimes reaching substantial amounts. In more severe cases, legal action may be taken.

Archyde News: What challenges does the FCC face in identifying and shutting down pirate radio stations?

David C. Dombrowski: It can be quite challenging. The technology used by pirates has become increasingly elegant, making it harder to track them. They often operate on low-power, short-range frequencies, and some are even using digital encryption to mask their transmissions. It requires a complex combination of monitoring equipment, signal analysis expertise, and on-the-ground investigations.

Archyde News: So how does the FCC stay ahead of these technological advancements?

David C.Dombrowski: We constantly invest in new monitoring technology and training for our staff. We also rely heavily on public tips. Members of the public who notice unusual radio signals or suspect pirate activity can play a crucial role in helping us identify and shut down these illegal operations.

Archyde News: Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenge and opportunity related to pirate radio?

David C. Dombrowski: The biggest challenge is the evolving technology. As technology progresses, pirates will invariably find new ways to circumvent regulations. The opportunity, however, lies in using that same technology to our advantage. We need to continue investing in advanced monitoring tools and working collaboratively with industry partners and the public to create a more robust and resilient broadcasting environment.