Rhode Island Adds Concrete Covers to Stop Copper Theft
State officials are installing heavy concrete blocks over manhole covers to secure critical highway infrastructure.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Property Crime
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In 2024, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation began installing 700-pound concrete covers over roadside manholes to deter copper wire theft. The project follows more than $1 million in losses due to the ongoing theft of wiring from state streetlights.
Why it matters
The theft of copper wiring creates dangerous road conditions by disabling highway lighting systems. Rising market prices for copper have increasingly motivated criminals to target this critical infrastructure.
In January 2026, Joseph Fiyod, Jared Smith, and Jason Smith were charged with felony conspiracy regarding copper wire thefts. Their cases remain pending at the Providence District Court.
The players
Rhode Island Department of Transportation
This state agency is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of Rhode Island's roads, bridges, and public transportation infrastructure.
Joseph Fiyod
He is one of three individuals currently facing felony conspiracy charges in connection with the theft of copper wiring.
Jared Smith
He is a defendant charged with felony conspiracy regarding the state's copper wire theft investigations.
Jason Smith
He is currently facing felony conspiracy charges for his alleged involvement in the theft of infrastructure wiring.
The details
The agency is installing 700-pound concrete blocks, with some units being recessed into the ground to sit flush with the surface. To date, 87 of the 151 purchased concrete covers have been successfully installed across Rhode Island roads.
Timeline
In 2024, the state began installing concrete blocks over manhole covers.
In January 2026, three individuals were charged with felony copper wire conspiracy.
Legal Context
The prosecution of these copper theft cases follows the standard enforcement protocols established by the Rhode Island state criminal code regarding felony conspiracy. These legal actions reflect broader efforts to deter infrastructure-related crimes through felony-level charges.
Residents may see temporary traffic adjustments or construction activity as crews continue to install the heavy concrete covers on highways across the state. These measures aim to restore and protect essential roadway lighting, improving safety for all daily commuters.
The takeaway
Securing infrastructure with heavy physical barriers is a costly but necessary response to rising commodity theft. Road users should remain cautious when traveling through areas where highway lighting may still be undergoing repairs.
Further reading
For more information on local trends, visit Property Crime in Rhode Island.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WJAR.
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