Fall River Man Arrested on Motor Vehicle and Firearm Charges

DARTMOUTH (WBSM) — A Fall River man was arrested on motor vehicle and firearms charges Tuesday after a motor vehicle stop on State Road in Dartmouth.

After approaching the vehicle at 1:45 a.m., police identified the driver as Fredrick James Smith, Jr.. Smith was operating a Lexus RX350.

According to authorities, a loaded .38-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver was discovered beneath Smith's seat.

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Further investigation suggested Smith was allegedly operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, and he was placed in custody.

Smith was charged with operating under the influence of liquor, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, failure to stop for police, speeding, carrying a loaded firearm without a license (second offense), possession of ammunition without a firearms identification card, carrying a firearm without a license (second offense), improper storage of a firearm.

"Though the level of danger associated with this job continues to grow, the commitment to preserving the safety of this community by the members of the Dartmouth Police Department is unwavering," Police Chief Brian P. Levesque said in a release.