New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“New Bedford police detectives have seized two firearms following their surveillance of a narcotics transaction.
On May 9th, 2022, detectives assigned to the Organized Crime Intelligence Bureau were monitoring activity in the area of “Temple Landing”. At approximately 5:30pm, a drug transaction was observed between a male and female on the corner of the Cedar St./Kempton St. intersection. Upon further investigation, it was learned that the female, later identified as JOHNA FONSECA, 42, of Wareham, had purchased Percocet from the male who was later identified as KEELAND ROSE, 28, of 131 Cedar Grove St.
ROSE and a juvenile were stopped shortly thereafter as they approached a nearby parked vehicle. Upon subsequent search, the juvenile was found to have a 22-caliber revolver loaded with 5 rounds of ammunition. ROSE was later found to be in possession of a Smith & Wesson bodyguard 38 loaded with 3 rounds of ammunition.
KEELAND ROSE was charged with distribution of class B substance, conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws, and being a felon while carrying a loaded firearm and ammunition without license. ROSE was previously convicted of accessory after the fact following the shooting murder of Brad Lourenco in 2017, for which he was sentenced to 3-6 years.
JOHNA FONSECA was charged with possession of class B substance and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws. The arresting officer was Matthew Sylvia.
The above-mentioned juvenile was charged with carrying a loaded firearm and ammunition without license.
The arresting officer was Matthew Sylvia.
Since May 1st, New Bedford police officers have taken 7 illegal firearms off the street and out of the hands of those who would do harm. If you have any information on criminal activity in your neighborhood, the New Bedford Police Dept. wants to hear from you. You can leave an anonymous tip on our voicemail at (508) 991-6300 Ext. 1. You can also leave a tip at our website, www.newbedfordpd.com.” -New Bedford Police Department.
