New Bedford Police Make Arrest, Seize Over 900 Grams of Cocaine

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — Detectives seized over 900 grams of cocaine from a New Bedford man Wednesday afternoon.

Police said detectives concluded an investigation into a cocaine distribution operation allegedly being run by Travis Mello, 31, on Wednesday, October 4. The operation was allegedly being run out of 40 Nemasket Place, Apartment B.

At around 4 p.m., detectives located Mello operating a vehicle in the area of Rockdale Avenue and Dartmouth Street. According to police, Mello fled at a high rate of speed after officers attempted to stop him. They said he proceeded to travel recklessly into the South End with detectives chasing him. After blowing a tire, the vehicle came to a stop in the area of George Street where Mello then fled on foot before being stopped and secured in a nearby yard.

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Detectives then searched Mello's residence on Nemasket Street.

Police said detectives discovered over 930 grams of cocaine within the residence, along with cutting agent, scales, packaging materials and over $2,500 in cash. Mello was taken into custody and charged with trafficking in excess of 200 grams of cocaine and failing to stop for police, among other charges.

Police said Mello has an extensive criminal history. They said he was already wanted in connection with a drug transaction that had taken place in early August during which he sold crack cocaine to an individual in a pharmacy parking lot. 

Regarding that incident, Mello was charged with the distribution of crack cocaine and conspiracy to violate the Controlled Substance Act.

Previous convictions also include distribution of cocaine, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, trafficking a controlled substance, and a history that includes 60 adult arraignments.