Recently-Released New Bedford Man Arrested for Guns, Drugs

A New Bedford man recently released from prison on drug and gun charges was arrested again on similar charges this week, along with his girlfriend, after police say they seized cocaine, fentanyl, guns and ammunition from the couple.

On Thursday, June 9, New Bedford Police detectives assigned to the Organized Crime Intelligence Bureau executed a search warrant at 79 Linden Street, Apartment 3, targeting James Souza, 25, and his girlfriend Caroline Rivera, 26. A 2014 Mercedes belonging to Souza was also a target of the search warrant, police said.

Souza has previous convictions for narcotics distribution and unlawful possession of a firearm, police said, and was recently released from prison after serving three to four years on those charges.

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According to police, during Thursday's search Souza and Rivera were found to be in possession of about 50 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of fentanyl, digital scales, packaging materials and over $7,000 in cash. Police said the couple also was in possession of a loaded .40-caliber pistol and loaded mini-Draco AK-47-style pistol, along with 175 rounds of ammunition and high-capacity magazine.

Police said neither Souza nor Rivera is licensed to carry a firearm.