Cranston residents arrested in statewide gambling sting

Several Cranston residents are among 17 men facing charges in connection with an alleged organized criminal gambling operation, according to Rhode Island State Police.

According to a Tuesday press release, the arrests came following an eight-month investigation that included Cranston police and departments from across the state.

Multiple media outlets on Tuesday reported police had executed search warrants at The Cozy Grill restaurant on Warwick Avenue in Warwick and a beachfront home in Narragansett in connection with the investigation.

According to state police, the following Cranston residents were arrested Tuesday:

Thomas J. Pilderian, 45, of 55 Pine Ridge Road in Cranston, on charges of bookmaking, organized criminal gambling, and conspiracy.

Dustin R. Sears, 40, of 40 Braeburn Circle in Cranston, on charges of organized criminal gambling and conspiracy.

David J. Disano, 42, of 83 West Hill Drive in Cranston, on charges of organized criminal gambling and conspiracy.

Timothy J. Moretti, 46, of 1710 Phenix Ave. in Cranston, on charges of bookmaking, organized criminal gambling, conspiracy, and violation of probation.

Brian K. Cipolla, 48, of 178 Council Rock Road in Cranston, on charges of organized criminal gambling and conspiracy.

Joseph A. Capelli, 38, of 58 Firglade Drive in Cranston, on charges of organized criminal gambling and conspiracy.

Residents of Warwick, Scituate, North Providence, Narragansett, and South Kingstown were also charged. All 17 men were due to be arraigned Tuesday.

State police indicated the investigation remains ongoing.

‘Brazen’ purse thief sought

Cranston police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who stole a woman’s purse from a supermarket.

According to a message posted via social media, the suspect took the purse while in the parking lot of the Stop & Shop on Warwick Avenue.

“After stealing the purse, which contained cash and credit cards, the suspect put it into the trunk of his car and returned to the store where he brazenly continued his shopping,” the message reads.

Police have circulated an image of the suspect taken from surveillance video. Anyone with information regarding his identity is asked to contact Detective Joseph Hopkins at 401-477-5065.