New Bedford Police Arrest 15 in Latest Crime Sweep

NEW BEDFORD - New Bedford Police narcotics and gang units arrested 15 people Tuesday as part of effort to target street level narcotics activity in the city.

During the investigation, police observed suspicious activity in the 100-block of Hemlock Street in and around a parked vehicle. After further investigation, a small amount of cocaine and $1,358 in cash were discovered.

Police made four arrests in connection with this incident.

Dawn K. Ponte, 49, 33 Swift St. Apt. 2FL, New Bedford, was charged with possession of cocaine, conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Samuel Santana, 21, 35 Larch St., New Bedford, was charged with two counts of distribution of cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Jose J. Montanez Jr., 20, 598 Cottage St. Apt. 3, New Bedford, was charged with distribution of cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug laws.
Gregory Jackson, 22, 109 David St. Apt. 1E, New Bedford, was charged with distribution of cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug laws.

Police also observed suspicious activity in a motor vehicle in the area of Hemlock and Sidney Street.

After further investigation, police arrested Derek M. Rodriguez, 26, 208 McCabe St. Apt. 2, Dartmouth, on two counts of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. A small amount of marijuana and $191 were found in his possession.

Police also arrested Stephanie A. Conigo, 29, 639 Russells Mills Road, Apt. 1, Dartmouth, on charges of having no inspecton sticker and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

Police also made nine warrant arrests: