New Bedford Police charge 2 juveniles, 2 adults with trafficking and firearm offenses

“New Bedford police detectives have seized two firearms in two separate incidents over the past weekend.

On Saturday, March 18th, detectives assigned to the “Organized Crime Intelligence Bureau” executed a search warrant at 66 Rogers St. The target of the investigation was PAUL SILVA, 41. Upon making entry into the residence, a second male, Mr. NICHOLAS TAFT, 28, of Fall River was located as was a juvenile who did not reside there.

During the search that followed, over 30 grams of “crack” cocaine and 2.6 grams of powder cocaine were located along with digital scales and packaging materials. Also discovered was a loaded 9mm Taurus handgun. SILVA was found to be in possession of $1734 and TAFT was found to have $4660 in cash. This money was seized as a result of the nature of their charges.

New Bedford Police Department photo.

PAUL SILVA and NICHOLAS TAFT were both charged with trafficking cocaine in excess of 18 grams, conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. SILVA was previously convicted of possession with intent to distribute class “B” substance approximately one year ago, making this a subsequent offense. SILVA was also convicted in 2019 of carrying a dangerous weapon following an incident during which he was found to be in possession of a machete and brass knuckles.

The above-mentioned juvenile was charged with trafficking cocaine in excess of 18 grams and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws before being released to the custody of a parent.

The investigating detective was Jordan DaSilva. On Sunday, March 19th, detectives had received information concerning a juvenile carrying a handgun in the area of Hazelwood park. Surveillance was conducted at this location and the juvenile was soon located.

Detectives approached the juvenile and discovered a loaded .380 pistol in their possession which was later determined to have been stolen out of Maine. The suspect began to resist violently with the officers before eventually being taken into custody.

This incident marks the second time this suspect has been arrested by New Bedford detectives with a firearm, the first time being when they were only 15 years old. That case was later dismissed by a judge in New Bedford district court.

The investigating detective was Jordan DaSilva.

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.”