New Bedford Drug Raid Leads to Six Arrests

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — Six people were arrested recently in connection with a drug raid in New Bedford’s South End.

According to New Bedford Police, Detective Stephanie Connolly concluded her investigation on Thursday, May 29 into a cocaine distribution service operating out of 69 South Street, Apartment 1.

Police executed a search warrant on that date, seizing 16 grams of powdered and crack cocaine, digital scales, packaging materials, two rounds of .22-caliber ammunition and $2,302 in cash.

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Two of the residents of the apartment – Joshua Hightower, 38, and Lijah Fortes, 28 – were both arrested, as were Robert Silva, 31, Shannon Smith, 49, and Ashley McSween Lim, 39, all of New Bedford. Terrence Battle, 50, of Providence, Rhode Island was also arrested.

All six are charged with possession of a Class B drug and all but Silva were also charged with conspiracy to violate drug laws. Silva was also charged with possession of ammunition without an FID card, while Battle was also arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Hightower was also charged with possession with intent to distribute a Class B drug.

"This investigation reflects our department’s ongoing commitment to keeping drugs and illegal activity out of our City,” Acting Police Chief Derek Belong said. “I commend Det. Connolly and all involved officers for their excellent work."

Police said the assisting officers were Detectives Eric Boulay, Matt Couture, Jonathan Miranda and David Wallant, as well as Officers Tyler White, Bruce Nicely and Jason Molleo.