Providence DPW worker accused of stealing coins from parking meters

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A Providence Department of Public Works (DPW) employee is facing multiple charges related to accusations that he stole coins from city parking meters.

According to a Providence police representative, Kristopher Stetson, 45, has been charged with:

• Three counts of embezzlement
• Three counts of larceny
• Three counts of driving without consent of the owner

Stetson was arrested Saturday after Providence police said they observed him opening multiple Providence parking meters and placing their internal canisters into a black bag.

According to Providence police, the investigation into stolen Providence parking meter coins began on October 8.

Stetson was named as the suspect in the thefts and an arrest warrant was obtained on November 13.

Search warrants were secured on November 14 for Stetson’s 57 Shippee Avenue residence in West Warwick and his 2023 Nissan Altima.

Providence detectives set up surveillance of Stetson’s home, and followed him from the residence at approximately 4:45 a.m. Saturday.

Stetson drove to 75 Chapman Street, parked his personal car, and entered a city vehicle, according to the report.

He then drove to Dorrance Street where he was observed opening the meters and bagging the canisters, according to police.

Stetson was taken into custody by detectives at this time without incident.

According to police, Stetson was found in possession of a set of parking meter keys and the meter cannisters.