The East Providence Police Department announces the arrest of a suspect connected to a commercial break-in that occurred during the early morning hours of May 20, 2026.
At approximately 4:30 am, patrol officers responded to Riverside Market on Bullocks Point Avenue after receiving a report of a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, officers discovered the business had been broken into. Detectives immediately responded and launched an investigation alongside members of the Patrol Division.
Through outstanding teamwork between the Patrol Division and Detective Division, along with valuable assistance from members of the East Providence community, investigators were able to quickly identify a suspect.
Detectives tracked the suspect to a hotel parking lot in Seekonk, Massachusetts, where detectives located Jeffrey Willis, 63, of East Providence. While under observation, Willis was seen smashing the window of a parked vehicle and was immediately taken into custody by Seekonk Police officers less than 12 hours from the original call.
Willis was charged by the Seekonk Police Department with Vandalism and Fugitive From Justice charges. He will also face charges in East Providence for Breaking and Entering into a Business and will await extradition back to Rhode Island. He has an extensive criminal record dating back 40 years.
This arrest highlights the dedication and persistence of our officers and detectives, as well as the strong partnerships we continue to build with neighboring agencies and our community. Residents should feel reassured knowing the work being done every day to identify offenders, protect businesses, and bring those responsible for crimes to justice.
The East Providence Police Department thanks the Seekonk Police Department and the members of our community whose support and cooperation continue to play a critical role in keeping our neighborhoods safe.
