New Bedford Police Arrest Two on Gun and Alcohol Charges

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Police recently arrested two people on firearm and alcohol charges after responding to a disturbance.

According to police, Officer Matthew Costa was patrolling the city’s North End early on Saturday, June 21 when he responded to the area of Downey Street for a report of several individuals arguing near a vehicle.

Police said Costa spoke with the driver – identified as Caroline Rivera-Lopez, 29, of New Bedford – and other occupants of the vehicle and “noted inconsistencies in their statements and suspicious behavior that warranted further investigation.”

“As the encounter progressed, he observed signs of alcohol consumption, erratic behavior from one male who refused to identify himself, and multiple individuals moving around inside the vehicle,” police said.

Get our free mobile app

The male was identified as Gilberto Torres Garcia, 24 of Fall River. Police said he had six active warrants out of New Bedford District Court.

“During the interaction, Officer Costa observed a firearm in plain view within the vehicle’s passenger-side door pocket,” police said. “A further search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a loaded revolver, two knives and open containers of alcohol.”

Police said none of the people present had a license to carry a firearm.

Garcia and Rivera-Lopez were arrested and charged with possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle, improperly storing a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm without a license and failing to wear a seatbelt.