Narcotics Dealer Arrested on Firearm, Drug Charges

New Bedford, MA — Detectives have seized a gun after observing a drug transaction on Tuesday night.

On August 27th, detectives observed a narcotics transaction taking place between a man and a woman on Acushnet Avenue in the area of Deane Street.  As a result, JACOB MATTHEW-ALMEIDA, 26, of 104 Peckham Street Apt. #2 was approached by the officers.  Upon further investigation, MATTHEW-ALMEIDA was found with crack cocaine, a digital scale, and a black fanny pack containing a loaded .45 caliber Sig Sauger P250 firearm.  In addition, $197 in cash was seized due to the nature of his charges.

MATTHEW-ALMEIDA was taken into custody and charged with several serious offenses, including possession of a large-capacity firearm and ammunition without a license, distribution of crack cocaine, and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws.  He has previous convictions for assault and battery, resisting arrest, and malicious destruction of property.  At the time of this arrest, he had six open cases out of New Bedford District Court.

The woman he was selling narcotics to was identified as Ms. TATIANA IRIZARRY, 31, of 56 Acorn Street.  She was charged with possession of crack and conspiracy.

The arresting officer was Detective Emily Pacheco.

If you have any information you would like to provide to the police, you can do so anonymously by calling 508-99-CRIME or submitting a tip on our website.