New Bedford Police Seize Firearm From Intoxicated Man

NEW BEDFORD — New Bedford Police were able to safely take a loaded firearm away from a man they say was highly intoxicated in the city’s North End.

On May 28 at approximately 2 a.m., patrol units responded to 1623 Acushnet Avenue for a report of a man with a firearm. Officers located the man seated in the rear of a vehicle. He was later identified as Nilton Miranda, 25.

Police say Miranda would not heed repeated commands to show his hands, and instead reached for a small bag on the seat next to him. Officers safely removed him from the vehicle, and discovered that the bag contained a Smith & Wesson .45-caliber automatic handgun with one round in the chamber.

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According to police, Miranda had no firearms license and was also highly intoxicated. He was taken into custody and charged with carrying a loaded firearm, possession of ammunition and disturbing the peace.

Miranda also has an open case out of Brockton District Court for possession of a Class A substance with intent to distribute.