Attorney General Neronha, DEM Director Gray issue statements following successful effort to shut down operations at Rhode Island Recycled Metals until further notice

Published on Friday, July 12, 2024

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Attorney General Peter F. Neronha and Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) Director Terrence Gray today issued the following statements after today’s decision by Providence Superior Court Justice Brian P. Stern granting the State’s request for a temporary restraining order, thereby shutting down Rhode Island Recycled Metals until the Court accepts a plan for RIRM to safely reopen:

“We appreciate Judge Stern’s decision recognizing the inherent danger in allowing Rhode Island Recycled Metals to continue operating in a manner that has proven unsafe for Providence community members, particularly those in South Providence,” said Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. “The Court’s decision to grant our motion, thereby shutting down operations for the foreseeable future, will ensure that South Providence won’t have to continue to bear the burden of significant health risks while this business figures out if it can operate safely. I look forward to the Special Master’s report and we will work diligently to make sure RIRM’s negligence doesn’t continue to harm South Providence.” 

“DEM commends Judge Stern for his decision to address the longstanding environmental issues associated with this site. Today’s outcome is the result of a team effort between the Attorney General’s Office and DEM staff attorneys,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “We stand ready to hold RI Recycled Metals accountable and compel correction of the environmental violations at the site. That is what our community deserves.”