Warwick Police Arrest Man for Copper Theft
Authorities apprehended a Pittsfield man after neighbors reported suspicious activity at a vacant residence.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Property Crime
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Warwick police arrested Joseph Daigle on Sunday for the alleged larceny and destruction of property at 6 Robbins Road. Officers discovered 20 cut copper pipes at the scene of the vacant home.
Why it matters
The theft highlights the ongoing risk of property destruction at vacant residential sites, which can lead to significant structural damage. Prompt reporting by neighbors allowed police to intervene before further damage occurred.
Joseph Daigle faces single counts of larceny and destruction of property, with bail set at $500 following his arraignment in Orange District Court. The investigation remains active as a woman involved in the incident awaits a future court date.
The players
Joseph Daigle
He is the 45-year-old Pittsfield resident arrested in connection with the copper theft in Warwick.
Warwick Police
This is the municipal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating property crimes within the city limits.
Orange District Court
This is the judicial body that handles initial arraignments and legal proceedings for cases arising in the surrounding jurisdiction.
The details
Police responded to 6 Robbins Road after neighbors witnessed two individuals removing plumbing from the vacant house. Officers arrived to find tools and two piles containing 20 copper pipes, measuring between 5 and 8 feet in length.
Timeline
The arrest of the suspect occurred on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
The arraignment was held at the Orange District Court on Monday, October 19, 2026.
Legal Context
The incident at 6 Robbins Road reflects the ongoing challenges of securing unoccupied residential properties against opportunistic theft. This case follows a well-documented pattern of property crimes targeting vacant infrastructure that has persisted for years.
Residents in the area should remain vigilant regarding suspicious activity at neighboring properties that appear vacant or unattended. Reporting observations to the police quickly can prevent further damage to local real estate and property values.
The takeaway
Property owners should ensure that vacant residences are properly secured and monitored to deter theft of valuable materials. Neighbors play a critical role in community safety by reporting unauthorized access to empty homes as soon as it is observed.
Further reading
For more information on recent local criminal investigations, visit the Warwick Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Recorder.
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