New Bedford Police make arrest for cocaine distribution

January 3, 2016 1:32 pm

By Niza Viñas

nvinas@abc6.com

New Bedford police arrest a 24 year old man for cocaine distribution.

The New Bedford Police Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant at 161 State Street, the first floor, on Saturday. The investigations lead to the arrest of Travis Mello; suspected of cocaine distribution throughout the city.

During the search of Mello’s home, detectives found 345 grams of cocaine and crack cocaine. The retail value of this amount of “un-cut” cocaine is approximately $60,000. Additionally, $2,930 was located in Mello’s bedroom.

The suspect was approached by detectives shortly after leaving his home at approximately 2:45 p.m.

Mello was charged with trafficking cocaine in excess of 200 grams, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, subsequent offense, and violation of the career criminal act.

According to police, Mello is on parole in Massachusetts for an assault and battery with a dangerous weapon from a stabbing of August 2013. He was also found guilty of two counts of distribution of a class B controlled substance in August 2012.

Having been convicted of at least three prior violent crimes or serious drug offenses, police say Mello fits the qualifications of a career criminal. Those three prior convictions, for the career criminal act, carry a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison.

Trafficking in cocaine in excess of 200 grams carries a mandatory minimum of 12 years in prison.