News

NEW BEDFORD — Just after 6:30 a.m. this morning, Officer Kenneth Almeida responded to the area of Fish Island area for a reported well-being check. The reporting party, later identified as the victim, had called 911, stating that he had fallen into the freezing water between two fishing vessels and was unable to pull himself…

NEW BEDFORD, MA — Chief Jason Thody is pleased to announce the appointment of Assistant Deputy Chief Derek Belong as the new Deputy Chief and Debra J. Piehl as Deputy Director of Administrative Operations of the New Bedford Police Department. As Deputy Chief of Operations, ADC Belong will direct all sworn personnel and oversee patrol…

We have recently experienced an increase in federal law enforcement operations in the city. Most notably, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities have drawn local and national attention. In response to inquiries and questions we have received from the community, this FAQ page is intended to clarify NBPD’s role in such situations, outline the laws…

We are proud to announce two new School Resource Officers at our schools. Officer Kyle Cabral has been with the NBPD since 2014, and recently began his assignment at New Bedford High School alongside SRO Ryan Bland. Becoming an SRO has been his goal from the start. “It will allow me to be directly involved…

We are proud to introduce Officer Tyler Viera as the new West End Community Police Officer. A lifelong New Bedford resident, Ofc. Viera has served with the NBPD since 2019, spending most of his career in the Patrol Division. Over the years, he has earned praise for his professionalism, respectfulness, and compassion, building strong connections…

National Night Out was filled with great energy, community spirit, and an incredible turnout. It was amazing to see so many families, neighbors, and local organizations come together.     Photos (August 6, 2025):

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…

NEW BEDFORD, MA – A New Bedford man has been arrested in connection with an ongoing investigation led by New Bedford Police detectives into the recent theft of collectible Pokémon cards. On July 8th, officers responded to a breaking and entering at 1st Edition Collectibles, located on Purchase Street. The suspect had stolen numerous high-value…

The New Bedford Police Department is proud to welcome Chief Jason Thody, who officially began his role as Chief of Police on Monday, July 14. Chief Thody brings 28 years of law enforcement experience, having retired as Chief of the Hartford Police Department. Over the course of his career, he rose through the ranks from…

NEW BEDFORD — A woman has been charged with animal cruelty after officers discovered two deceased cats in her vehicle, which had been left in extreme heat. On Tuesday, July 15th, Officers Tyler White and Edwin Yat Toj were patrolling the South End sector of the city when they responded to Seabra Foods on Rockdale…