On Thursday, March 28, 2019, at approximately 12:45 a.m., while conducting a property check of Apponagansett Beach, Dartmouth Police Officer Michael CARREIRO observed a vehicle parked in the lot with two occupants.

As the parking lot has time restrictions, Officer CARREIRO proceeded to identify the two male occupants, at which time he learned that one of them, Angel DEJESUS RODRIGUEZ, 32, of Chancery Street, New Bedford, had an active extraditable warrant out of Suffolk County, New York for dangerous drugs.

Based on the warrant, DEJESUS RODRIGUEZ was arrested and charged with being a fugitive from justice.

A Whitman man was arrested and charged Tuesday in federal court in Boston with sexual exploitation of children.

Matthew Murphy, 22, was charged with two counts of sexual exploitation of children. Murphy appeared in federal court yesterday afternoon and was detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for today at 3:30 p.m.

According to charging documents, the investigation began when Murphy, posing as a teenage girl, used a Snapchat account to extort nude photographs from a Massachusetts middle school boy. Federal agents obtained portions of the Snapchat account Murphy had created in the fake identity and uncovered evidence of similar extortion of other minors in the area.

During the execution of the search warrant at Murphy’s home, Murphy admitted that the fake account was his, and investigators found forensic evidence of the account on some of his electronic devices. Murphy was subsequently arrested.

Law enforcement is actively working to identify additional victims. Members of the public with questions or information about this matter should call 617-748-3274.

The charges of sexual exploitation of children each provide for a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years and no greater than 30 years in prison, a minimum of five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Peter C. Fitzhugh, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston, made the announcement today. The Whitman Police Department provided valuable assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne Paruti, Lelling’s Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of his Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.

The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office and New Bedford Police are actively investigating a motor vehicle crash, which occurred in the City of New Bedford earlier today.

At approximately 9:49 am New Bedford Police received 911 calls regarding a motor vehicle crash at Ashley Boulevard and Tallman Street. When police and first responders arrived they located two motor vehicles that had been involved in a collision. Two victims were extricated from a Toyota Corolla.

The driver of the Toyota Corolla, identified as 68-year-old Janet Murphy of New Bedford was pronounced deceased during transport to Rhode Island Hospital. The second victim, a male passenger of the Corolla, is in critical condition at Rhode Island Hospital.

It is believed that the second motor vehicle, a Chevy Malibu, contained two occupants at the time of the crash. One occupant was located on scene and the second is believed to have fled. Police are actively searching for the whereabouts of the second occupant.

Initial investigation has revealed that Fairhaven police had attempted to stop the Chevy Malibu in Fairhaven. At that time the Chevy Malibu fled into the City of New Bedford. It appears that the Chevy Malibu was travelling West on Tallman Street, approaching Ashley Boulevard, when the driver failed to stop at the stop sign and collided with the Toyota Corolla.

This investigation is active and ongoing, no further information can be released at this time.

A 24-year-old Taunton man was convicted of a litany of illegal firearm-related offenses last week in Fall River Superior Court and was sentenced to serve three to five years in state prison, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced.

Frankie Wright pleaded guilty to indictments charging him with two counts of unlawful possession a firearm, seven counts of possessing a large capacity feeding device, and one count each of trafficking cocaine in excess of 18 grams, unlawful possession a firearm with a defaced serial number and unlawful possession of ammunition.

As part of an ongoing narcotics investigation initiated by Braintree Police, police executed a search warrant on the defendant’s Hart Street apartment on June 21, 2018.

Once inside, and while the defendant was present, police found a .40 caliber Glock 22 handgun sticking out of a boot. The Glock contained a 15 round large capacity feeding device and was loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition including one in the chamber ready to fire.

The serial number on the Glock had been scratched off. In the closet, police found a black Glock gun box containing two 15 round large capacity Glock magazines, both loaded with ammunition. In the closet, police also found a Walther gun box containing a 15 round large capacity Walther PPQ magazine and a S&W 9 mm 15 round large capacity magazine. In the same area, police located a Sentry safe, which contained a baggie of cocaine weighing 25.98 grams, numerous boxes of ammunition, a large capacity PMAG 30 magazine, a baggie of ammunition, ½ used green box of sandwich bags, and paperwork.

In the same bedroom under the bed, police located a black bag containing a Palmetto State Armory PA-15 multi semi-automatic rifle, which contained a loaded 30 round large PMAG 30 magazine. The serial number on the rifle was scratched off. Also located under the bed was a backpack containing boxes of ammunition.

In the bedroom, police located an envelope containing receipts, a CR digital scale, and $380 cash. In total, police seized two large capacity firearms that contained large capacity magazines and five additional large capacity feeding devices. ​

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Carolyn Morissette and the state prison sentence was imposed by Judge Renee Dupuis.

“This defendant was in possession of large capacity firearms, ammunition and was dealing drugs. This is a very dangerous combination,” District Attorney Quinn said. “It was critical that this defendant was held from the time of his arrest as a danger to the community, which the facts demonstrate that he clearly is.”

New Bedford High School’s 2018 four-year cohort graduation rate has increased to 76.0%, the highest in 12 years, based on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) recent reporting on statewide graduation rates. The 2017 four-year cohort graduation rate was 72.0%, a 4.0% increase, representing tremendous growth from the 2010 low of 61.4%.

NBHS English Language Learners (ELL) had the highest increase from 30.6% in 2017 to 53.5% in 2018 – up 22.9%. “This remarkable progress is a direct correlation to the recent budget investments made in our students’ future,” Superintendent Thomas Anderson stated. He also noted that, “This reflects the dedication to the overall teaching and learning process that is supported long before students enter high school. This progress is something that all staff can and should be proud of, from the Pre-K teachers to every staff member in the high school.” Superintendent Anderson also expressed his appreciation to the willingness of all staff to work with students to provide opportunities for them to be successful.

New Bedford High School has also experienced a sharp decline in its drop-out rate, another key metric reported by DESE. The 2010 dropout rate of 7.4% is a stark contrast to the 2.7% drop in 2017 and the new low of 1.4% in 2018, the lowest since DESE began reporting this information in 2007.

Mayor Jon Mitchell said, “It is encouraging that New Bedford High School’s graduation rate continues to improve thanks to the hard work of educators and students as we continue to focus on improving our schools. The graduation rate is more than a statistic – it means that more students are prepared for success after high school. New Bedford Public Schools have made significant strides in the past few years, and this is yet another indicator of progress.”

Headmaster Bernadette Coelho said, “The entire staff is focused on preparing every one of our students for graduation, ready for college and other opportunities. I’m proud of our hardworking students and staff; it is because of their determination and diligence that we continue to see larger and larger graduating classes. It can only happen if every student matters, and as I’ve said before, we know that with a plan, every student can and will succeed.”

If you’ve watched television shows like Pool Kings, The Pool Master, and Insane Pools: Off The Deep End you really want to have a pool or jacuzzi more than you already wanted one. Seeing the planning, hard work, and craftsmanship that goes into these projects, both small and large, gives you a deep (pardon the pun) appreciation for what these crews do.

However, those television shows have a way of making us feel like having a pool or spa is something that is out of our reach – unattainable. “That’s something people in Florida get for themselves – something people with a lot of money to spend. There’s no way I could afford something like that as much as I want it.”

What if I told you that there is a local company that creates similar projects with the same world-class workmanship, skill, and ability? That it is far more affordable than you think, making something you believe to be unattainable, actually attainable?

Imagine what it would feel like to have one of those backyards in the shows? The creative pools and spas, landscaping, gazebos, stone patios, and everything else that turn a house into a home or breathe new life into it. We all know that it isn’t so much about the material aspects of the projects, but the pricelessness of what it brings to your family: a platform for all the special events and occasions, as well as the countless memories.

Family owned and operated Aaron Pools and Spas of 597 State Road in Dartmouth is not new to the “game” – they aren’t jumping on the bandwagon based on the current popularity of the aforementioned shows. They have been serving the SouthCoast and beyond since 1972 – almost 50 years!

An expert, knowledgable staff of over 35 locals combines over 500 years of experience – that translates into the capability and ability to create your very own dream yard project the way you see it and want it. Aaron Pools and Spas have made themselves the premiere dream backyard creator through pools, spas, and hot tubs through the care, craftsmanship, and passion that goes into every single one of their projects.

No dream project is too small or too grand, each is approached with the same care. These projects go well beyond the pool or hot tub installation and include grills, ovens, smokers, a large variety of tables, chairs, rockers, benches, loungers, lamps. stools, automatic pool cleaners, and accessories. See the astounding array of options here.

They also don’t walk off into the sunset when they are done making these dream projects into realities. They do more than sell and install: they service too. Something breaks? Burns out? Ages and deteriorates? They are one phone call away.

Being expert water chemistry technicians they maintain their knowledge by staying on top of current trends and changes, so that means when it’s that time of year to open your pool, or the ph goes south on you, you are covered. I don’t include hot tubs in that time of year since people use their hot tubs all year round, including winter.

One of the fascinating aspects that Aaron Pools and Spas offers is giving you the ability to actually see what the finished pool or hot tub would look like in your yard through CGI and artist renditions. You can see many of their finished projects and artists renditions in the gallery I’ve included below or on the photo section of their Facebook page and the photo gallery section on their website. Prefer videos?

If you are interested in what actual, real-world testimonials? What people are saying about their experiences with Aaron Pools and Spas? Check out the people are saying.

Whether you want to turn your yard into a place for memorable, fun, family experiences that will last a lifetime or just a place to relax, unwind and destress there is literally no one on the SouthCoast that compares to the dream makers at Aaron Pools and Spas. No one with more experience, passion, and higher standards. No one makes dreams more affordable placing it within your reach.

See your pool or hot tub as it would look in your yard before its built.

__________________________________________________________________

Aaron Pools & Spas

597 State Rd
Dartmouth, Massachusetts
Phone: (508) 996-3320
EMail: pools@aaronpoolsandspas.com

Wednesday-Saturday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Sunday & Tuesday: CLOSED

Facebook: facebook.com/aaronpoolsandspas/
Website: www.aaronpoolsandspas.com

Tara Mitchell of Fairhaven is the winner of a $1 million prize in the Massachusetts State Lottery’s “The Fastest Road to $1 Million” instant game.

Mitchell chose the cash option on her prize and received a one-time payment of $650,000 (less tax withholdings). Her winning ticket was purchased at Pub 6T5, 736 Ashley Blvd. in New Bedford. Pub 6T5 will receive a $10,000 bonus for its sale of the ticket.

PAY: $17.42hr – $24.18hr

Performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled technical and maintenance work in the operation, maintenance and repair of treatment facilities and systems.

Adjusts equipment, as indicated, to regulate the flow of water and control the amount of treatment chemicals added; must assist with maintenance programs throughout the treatment plant, watershed and distribution system.

Accurately records plant data and makes associated computations as necessary, as well as maintains operation logs; maintains optimum process control via sampling, laboratory testing, and machinery and equipment inspections and adjustments.

Adheres to specific weekly schedule of responsibilities including chemical and preventative maintenance; assume responsibility of handling chemicals in a safe and efficient manner.

Exhibits good attitude expected of employees in a health-related field; assumes responsibility for maintaining the plant in a clean and orderly fashion.

Must assume responsibility for plant operations when on duty.

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent, supplemented by four years’ experience as an attendant of a water/wastewater facility required. Possession of a Grade III Drinking Water Operator license preferred or ability to obtain one within eighteen months from date of hire. Possession of a valid Massachusetts driver’s license with good driving record. Must have a telephone and own transportation. This employee is subject to twenty-four hour call.

For more information, please visit:

Employment Opportunities

Applications will be accepted until a suitable candidate is found. EEO

New Bedford has a residency requirement.

A 50-year-old New Bedford career criminal who stole a vehicle while out on bail for breaking into another vehicle was sentenced last Friday to serve three years in state prison, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III announced today.

Michael Furtado pleaded guilty in Fall River Superior Court to indictments charging him with breaking and entering into a motor vehicle, larceny over $1,200 and receiving a stolen motor vehicle.

The first incident occurred on October 14, 2017, when the defendant broke into a woman’s vehicle near the intersection of Pleasant and William streets. At around 10:15 a.m. on that date, a New Bedford Police Officer on routine patrol was flagged down by the victim’s boyfriend. The officer caught up with the defendant about a block away and found him to be in possession of the victim’s identification, electronics, her checkbook, cash, and other items.

Then, on September 30, 2018, while out on bail from the first arrest, the defendant was arrested for stealing a motor vehicle. On that date, New Bedford Police responded to a report of a stolen vehicle. The car’s Lo-Jack system was activated and it was tracked to Fairhaven where the defendant was apprehended while inside the vehicle.

Due to the fact that the defendant has a 17-page criminal record which included a 15-20 year state prison sentence for a breaking and entering case from 1991, Assistant District Attorney Jeanne Veenstra argued he should be sentenced to serve a seven to 12 year state prison term.

Judge Raffi Yessayan, however, sentenced the defendant to three years in state prison, which will be followed by two years of supervised probation.

“The defendant is a career thief who continues to commit crimes. In this case, he stole a car while out on release, which is particularly irritating. We feel he should have received a longer sentence based on his record,” District Attorney Quinn said.

We are over the Moon excited!

Join us on Friday, April 19th beginning at 8:00pm at the Acushnet Fire Station #1 (24 Russell Street) as a piece of the Moon comes to Acushnet for the very first time.

Mr. Joe Cote, an Acushnet resident, Middle School Science Teacher and a NASA Solar System Ambassador, will bring telescopes, knowledge, materials and most importantly, a rock collected by the crew of Apollo 11 during the first moonwalk 50 years ago!