“Fire Chief Scott Kruger and Deputy Fire Chief Brian Medeiros are pleased to announce the New Bedford Fire Department has been awarded $189,547 in funding through FEMA’s FY23 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.

The funding will be used to facilitate NFPA 1021 Standard for Fire Officer Professional Qualifications and NFPA 1521 Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer training for all Department fire officers and members of the command staff.

The NFPA 1021 Fire Officer Course is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of fire officers. The role of a company officer includes responsibilities such as incident scene strategy and tactics, supervisor and leader, teacher, fire prevention officer, and public fire educator. The company officer’s role also includes understanding and working within the framework of an Incident Command System.

NFPA 1521 Standard for Fire Department Safety Officer contains the minimum requirements for the assignment, duties and responsibilities of a health and safety officer and an incident safety officer for fire departments.

Over the past few years, many senior fire officers and District Fire Chiefs have retired creating a large number of newly promoted fire officers and District Fire Chiefs. These training classes will provide them and all of our supervisors an excellent opportunity for professional development.

Fire Chief Kruger and Deputy Fire Chief Medeiros thank #L841newbedfordfirefighters for their support in successfully obtaining this funding.”-City of New Bedford Fire Department photo.

On Monday, the Milford Police Department and EMS received 911 calls for an incident on Purchase Street. Arriving responders found an adult male victim on the ground suffering from a slash wound to the face and neck.

There were no other people on scene so police began to search the area for the alleged perpetrator.

The victim was transported to UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester via medical helicopter where he is in serious but stable condition.

The following day police made a traffic stop for which the Milford Police released an offical statement:

“At approximately 3:58PM, members of the Milford Police Detective Bureau enacted a motor vehicle stop in vicinity of the Sumner and Dilla St. intersection. 

The stop resulted in the arrest of SANDY VILLEDA MARTINEZ, 35, of Milford, MA for the assault and stabbing that took place on July 15th, 2024, on Purchase St. in our town.  The suspect has been held without bail on charges including mayhem, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault to murder, and obstruction of justice.”

At the time of the robberies, defendant was wearing a court-ordered ankle bracelet with GPS monitoring.

“BOSTON – A Burlington, Mass. man was sentenced today in Boston federal court for his role in the armed robberies of multiple businesses in which he and two others beat, dragged and duct-taped victims.

Alfeu Barbosa, 26, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 121 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In March 2024, a federal jury convicted Barbosa of two counts of robbery affecting commerce. Barbosa was arrested and charged in June 2022. His co-defendants, Li Wen Tang and Jonas Nunez, were later arrested and charged in August and September 2022. 

On June 12, 2022 at approximately 8:51 p.m., Tang entered the Balance Reflexology Spa in Brookline pretending to be a customer seeking a massage. Because the victim was the only employee in the spa that night, she locked the door before taking Tang into the back room to begin the massage.

Tang asked the victim if there was anyone else in the spa and that if there was, he would like to see them. Almost immediately after the massage had begun, Tang claimed that he no longer wanted a massage because his stomach was upset and demanded a refund. The victim employee stated she had to call her boss to approve the refund. While the victim employee was on the phone in the lobby, Tang unlocked the front door and two masked men – later identified as Barbosa and Nunez – entered the business carrying firearms.

One of the men hit the victim employee in the face, knocking her to the floor and put a gun to her head. Barbosa and Nunez then pulled the victim by her hair into the back hallway where they instructed her to be quiet. They proceeded to bind the victim’s wrists and ankles with duct tape and gag her. Barbosa and Nunez repeatedly yelled at the victim asking, “Where is the money?”

The men ransacked the spa for roughly three minutes before locating and stealing approximately $500 along with the victim employee’s cell phone and then exiting. Surveillance footage revealed that all three men had arrived in the same vehicle parked nearby, which they drove away in together following the robbery.

Later that evening, at approximately 10:19 p.m. on June 12, 2022, Barbosa, Nunez and an associate of Barbosa committed a similar robbery of May’s Spa Massage in Stoneham. Specifically, they entered the business wearing masks and firearms and duct-taped several victims who were in the spa at the time. In addition to stealing approximately $600 in cash from the business and victims, Barbosa, Nunez and Barbosa’s associate took three cell phones belonging to three of the female victims present during the robbery, as well as a victim’s license, gift cards and credit and debit cards before leaving in the same vehicle. 

At the time of the robberies, Barbosa was wearing a court-ordered ankle bracelet with GPS monitoring due to a suspended sentence for multiple prior convictions in Middlesex Superior Court of armed robbery and assault and battery for robbing the De Onzen Spa in Waltham in July 2021. During that robbery, Barbosa threatened employees and patrons at knifepoint, stole their phones and punched one victim in the face causing an orbital fracture. Barbosa was subsequently charged in the state for assault and battery and sentenced in April 2022 to two and a half years in prison. That sentence was suspended for three years.  

Also at the time of the offenses, Barbosa was on pretrial release in Suffolk Superior Court for charges of breaking and entering in the daytime with the intent to commit a felony and larceny from a building.

Nunez pleaded guilty in January 2024 and, on April 18, 2024, was sentenced to 23 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Tang pleaded guilty on April 3, 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 9, 2024.

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in New York; the Massachusetts State Police; and the Brookline, Stoneham, Boston, Wakefield and New York City Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Luke A. Goldworm and Robert E. Richardson of the Major Crimes Unit are prosecuting the case. “-Massachusetts Department of Justice.

By Chris Lisinski, Michael P. Norton, State House News Service

Fiberglass and foam debris that could fill six trucks has been recovered so far on and around Nantucket as work continues to collect the fragments of a wind blade that was mysteriously damaged on Saturday night.

The offshore wind developer Vineyard Wind said Wednesday that 17 cubic yards of debris has been removed from the island’s southern shoreline along with several larger pieces that washed ashore. The power installation was also completely shut down on Saturday night, the company revealed Wednesday.

“Cleanup efforts will continue Wednesday and throughout the week as necessary until all debris is removed,” the company said. Vineyard Wind will also increase its beach patrols on island to 35 employees and contractors, up from the eight people deployed Tuesday.

The cleanup crews have been coordinating with the Nantucket Police, Nantucket Land Bank, and Nantucket Harbormaster, and Vineyard Wind indicated Wednesday they are observing less material washing ashore and the local police have reopened the beaches to swimming.

“We’re making progress in the debris recovery efforts and mobilizing even more resources on the island to hasten the cleanup as quickly as possible,” Vineyard Wind CEO Klaus Moeller said in a statement. “We continue to ask that members of the public avoid handling any of the debris, but report any debris sightings to Vineyard Wind or town officials for recovery. The public can have confidence that we will be here as long as it takes to get the job done and make sure the beaches are cleaned up.”

Operations at the first offshore installation to provide clean power to Massachusetts were “shut down until further notice” by the federal government as investigators look into what caused the breakage in one of the project’s massive, 107-meter blades.

On Wednesday morning, a Vineyard Wind spokesman said that project officials “immediately upon identification of the damage to the GE Vernova blade on Saturday evening … implemented a complete stop on power production for Vineyard Wind 1, and the wind farm has ceased power production since that time.”

Ten turbines were operational before the sudden halt, generating 136 megawatts of electricity. Project officials plan to ramp that up to 62 turbines offering a combined 806 megawatts once the project is complete.

Vineyard Wind disclosed the blade breakage publicly on Monday afternoon. On Wednesday, Vineyard Wind also said that the federal Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement’s work suspension order, which made it into the news on Tuesday, was issued Monday afternoon.

Company officials plan to provide an in-person update at a Nantucket Select Board meeting that begins at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Vineyard Wind hired construction firm Robert B. Our and emergency response contractor National Resource Corporation to lead cleanup efforts. The company said it also plans to deploy shorebird monitors Wednesday “to conduct visual monitoring for state listed and protected avian species,” who will escort any vehicles working to remove debris near affected bird nests.

“New Bedford, MA — Major Crime Detectives have concluded an investigation into repeated thefts from commercial trucks here in the City.

DANIEL PEDRO, 47, of 1669 Acushnet Ave., has been arrested concerning a series of vehicle breaks during which tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of tools and air compressors were stolen. All of these incidents occurred late at night/early morning hours, and entry was gained by breaking windows.

PEDRO was taken into custody on July 10^th after detectives stopped him. At the time of his arrest, numerous tools, including a Husky Air compressor, Milwaukee toolbox, and Rigid Shop Vac were located in the rear of his truck.

As a result of this investigation into his activities, PEDRO is now charged with:

• Twelve counts of breaking and entering into a vehicle/or boat
• Eight counts of Larceny over $1,200
• Larceny of a motor vehicle
• Receiving stolen property greater than $1,200
• Operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended or revoked license

Detective Matthew Sylvia was the lead investigator, and more charges may follow.

PEDRO has an extensive criminal history with 120 adult arraignments on his record.  Although 47 of those cases were dismissed, he has numerous convictions for a variety of offenses, including 13 charges of breaking and entering. 

PEDRO was held on $30,000 bail and is currently in the custody of the Bristol County Sheriff’s Department.

“With such an extensive history of victimizing hard-working citizens, it appears as though incarceration is the only option for this career criminal.  My thanks to the court for setting a $30k bail, and to DA Tom Quinn’s Office for their continued diligence as they proceed forward with this case,” said Chief Paul Oliveira. “I’d also like to acknowledge the hard work of Det. Matthew Sylvia and our Detective Division.”

Have you had tools or similar equipment stolen from your vehicle recently?  If so, detectives would like to hear from you — perhaps we have recovered them.  Contact our detective division at (508) 991-6300 and speak with Det. Matthew Sylvia at extension #79531.”-City of New Bedford Police Department.

“At about 5:17 PM on Monday July 15th, 2024, Officers assigned to District A-1 (Downtown) conducted moped/motorcycle enforcement near the intersection of Franklin St. and Washington St, Downtown Boston. Officers were on a directed foot-patrol to stop all motorcycles and/or mopeds operating in the pedestrian zone of Washington St. where no vehicles are authorized to travel in.

During their directed patrol, Officers issued multiple verbal warnings, Mass Uniform Citations, and a summons to one operator for various motor vehicle law infractions. In total, Officers seized 9 mopeds for various motor vehicle law violations.

The Boston Police Department would like to remind everyone that vehicles are strictly prohibited in the Downtown Crossing pedestrian zone. This area is designated for pedestrian use only to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.

Additional pedestrian zones in downtown are located at the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall.”-Boston Police Department.

Absentee, Mail-In Ballots Now Available for State and Congressional Primary.

“NEW BEDFORD – The New Bedford Elections Commission is gearing up for the State and Congressional Primary election on Sept. 3, including announcing changes to two Ward 3 polling locations and the availability of absentee and mail-in ballots.

Based on voter feedback, the Commission is changing polling locations for Precincts C and D in Ward 3 to the following locations:

• Precinct C will now vote at Hayden-McFadden Elementary School, 361 Cedar Grove St. Please use the main entrance. Its previous location was Taber Mills.

• Precinct D will now vote at Taber Mills, 271 Deane St. Please use the entrance on Coffin Avenue. Its previous location was Holy Name.

The changes will take effect starting with the Sept. 3 State and Congressional Primary. Polls will be open on that day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. across the City. Voters can make their selections for Senator and Representative in Congress, Governor’s Council, Senator and Representative in the Mass. General Court, Clerk of Courts, County Commissioner, and Register of Deeds.

Additionally, absentee and mail-in ballots are now available for the Sept. 3 primary. The deadline to apply by mail for an absentee or mail-in ballot is Aug. 26 at 5 p.m., while the deadline to apply in person at the Elections Office at City Hall (133 William St.) is Sept. 2 at noon. All absentee or mail-in ballots must be returned to the Elections Office by 8 p.m. on election day, either by mail, being hand-delivered to the office, or placed in the drop-off boxes outside City Hall or on Elm Street by the bus terminal.

Any registered voter can request a mail-in or absentee ballot, or vote absentee, at the Elections Office at City Hall during business hours, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Early voting will be held Downtown on the third floor of the New Bedford Public Library, 613 Pleasant St., from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 24-30. The voter registration deadline for the primary is Aug. 24.

As a reminder, Massachusetts holds what are referred to as “closed primaries” in which voters registered with one party are not allowed to pull a ballot in the other party’s primary. For example, in primary elections, enrolled Democrats can only take Democrat ballots, and enrolled Republicans can only take Republican ballots. Unenrolled, or independent, voters can choose which party’s ballot to take. In contrast, in the general election, voters are free to vote for any candidate, regardless of party affiliation.

Any New Bedford resident who is uncertain about their voting status or designated polling location, has changed their address since the last election, would like to request a mail-in or absentee ballot, or has other questions can contact the Elections Commission at 508-979-1420.”-City of New Bedford.

The following is an opinion sent to New Bedford Guide. It does not reflect the opinion of New Bedford Guide, nor is it an OP-ED. In fairness and objectivity, we share opinions from our readers whether we agree or disagree with their opinion.

Do you have a counter opinion to this opinion? Have an opinion about something else? Email us at info@newbedfordguide.com.

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“No matter the continuing violent rhetoric, the criminal convictions, indictments, infidelities, racist comments, anti-abortion waffling, disdain and disregard of the constitution and affinity for dictators, Donald Trump’s base remains loving and loyal.

That base is not sufficient to win him re-election unless he expands his attractiveness to independent voters and disaffected Democrats.

Clearly the selection of J.D. Vance, a newly fawning team member, and MAGA diehard, as his vice running mate, indicates that Trump has no intention of dialing down on disunity and changing course.

Vance has demonstrated by his words and actions, especially as it pertains to Trump, that he is an unrepentant hypocrite and opportunist. Having once been a severe Trump critic, and now morphed toady, he promises to extend his loyalty to de-certifying the 2024 election if Biden gains the electoral majority.

The Democrats would now be wise to concentrate their attention on the realistic possibility that if Trump regains the White House at some point his age, and unhealthy lifestyle, may elevate Vance to the presidency. The American electorate may therefore be more receptive to attacks upon Vance.

Highlighting his expressed devotion to turning the country on a backward trajectory, which will negatively  impact the majority of Americans, may re-activate the unhappy Democrats, allied with awakened independents, to reject the Republican ticket.

The strategy of vicariously attacking Trump by a barrage of negative ads, and media attention concentrated on Vance, may save this country from becoming an autocracy that benefits one class of Americans at the expense of the majority.”-Betty Ussach, Dartmouth.

“New Bedford, MA — After arresting a man with an illegal firearm, detectives now have enough to charge him with this month’s Roosevelt Street shooting. 

On July 10^th, narcotics detectives were conducting surveillance in the area of Nye Street and Acushnet Avenue when they observed a group of males congregating and drinking alcohol in public.   When detectives approached them, it was learned that one male had discarded a cross-body bag he had been wearing. 

Within this bag was a magazine containing ten rounds of 9mm ammunition.   A short distance away, detectives located a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun, which was later found to have been stolen out of Taunton.  The suspect, JOSE MENDEZ-GARCIA, 33, of 129 Bluefield St., was placed into custody.  He was charged with possession of an open container of alcohol, carrying a loaded large-capacity firearm without a license, and receiving stolen property.  The arresting officer was Det. George Coto.

In the days that followed, Detective Jordan Dasilva concluded his investigation into a shooting that took place on July 5^th outside of 12 Roosevelt St.  During this incident, an adult male victim was transported to St. Luke’s hospital after being injured by gunfire.  Det. Dasilva has identified MENDEZ-GARCIA as the suspect and has brought charges against him for that incident. 

In addition to the charges stemming from the firearm seizure in the north end, MENDEZ-GARCIA is now also charged with assault and battery by discharge of a firearm, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a building, and additional serious charges.  

MENDEZ has three prior guilty convictions for violent/drug offenses and was additionally charged with a firearm violation with three prior violent/drug crimes. 

“This is strong work from the Detective Division on two occasions with the same suspect.  First, they took the suspect into custody, and an illegal firearm was taken off the street.  Next, they built a case that implicated the suspect in a shooting incident during which a victim was seriously injured.  It’s clear to me that a dangerous individual is in custody right now due to their diligence, and the city is a safer place today because of it.  I’m very proud of all the men and women in this department,” said Chief Paul Oliveira.

If you have any information you would like to share with the NBPD, you can do so anonymously by visiting our website and submitting a tip or by calling 508-99-CRIME.”-City of New Bedford Police Department.

“On Monday, July 16 at approximately 12:30 p.m., Fairhaven detectives observed what they believed was a hand-to-hand drug transaction in the parking lot of the Seaport Resort & Marina on Middle Street in Fairhaven.

REYNOLDS was in WILLIAMS’ vehicle, a white Toyota Rav 4. When officers approached the subjects, REYNOLDS exited WILLIAMS’ vehicle and was apprehended by Fairhaven police.

WILLIAMS allegedly attempted to flee from the scene in the vehicle, driving aggressively towards a detective. WILLIAMS proceeded to speed into the rear section of the Middle Street parking lot where he was subsequently apprehended.

Detectives seized over 28 grams of cocaine, more than 15 grams of fentanyl and over $900 in cash. Fairhaven Detectives were assisted by Bristol County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit.

REYNOLDS and WILLIAMS were arraigned in New Bedford District court Tuesday morning.

These are allegations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.”-Fairhaven Police Department.