Two Arrested Following Narcotics Investigation and Seizure

NEW BEDFORD — Two men were arrested after a routine surveillance operation in the city’s South End led to the discovery of fentanyl, cocaine, cash, and a loaded firearm.

On Friday, July 25th, Detective Nathan Almeida was conducting surveillance near Delano Street. At approximately 7:15 p.m., he observed a known drug dealer, also known to have a suspended driver’s license, operating a motor vehicle.

After the individual pulled over and briefly interacted with a male, later identified as JONATHAN SALAZAR, 30, of 77 DELANO STREET, APT. #2, Almeida believed a narcotics transaction had occurred.

A short time later, detectives observed SALAZAR operating a vehicle with a passenger, identified as EDMILSON MENES GOMES, 29, of 917 COUNTY STREET. SALAZAR is also known to police to have a suspended license. A traffic stop was conducted, and a subsequent search led to the discovery of 23.6 grams of fentanyl, 16.9 grams of cocaine, narcotics packaging materials, and $873 in US currency, which was seized as a result of drug proceeds.

SALAZAR was taken into custody, and a search warrant was later executed at his residence. Inside the apartment, detectives located 22.5 grams of suspected fentanyl, 17.6 grams of crack cocaine, and a loaded Walther PPKS .380 handgun with eight rounds of ammunition.

SALAZAR does not possess a license to carry a firearm. He was charged with operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license, conspiracy to violate the drug law, trafficking in 36 grams or more of fentanyl, trafficking in 18 grams or more of cocaine, illegally attached plates, and possession of a firearm and ammunition without an FID card.

GOMES was also arrested and charged with conspiracy to violate the drug law, trafficking in 18 grams or more of fentanyl, and possession to distribute a Class B drug.

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