New Bedford Police arrest Providence man, seize firearm, following late-night traffic stop

“Patrol officers have taken a Providence man into custody following a late-night traffic stop this past weekend.

On April 14th, at around 3 AM, officers were investigating the erratic operation of a vehicle that had stopped on Norwell St. The suspect, Mr. ELIEZER MELERO, 27, of Sumster St. in Providence, was operating the vehicle. MELERO had a female passenger with him.

Ofc. Jacob Rebello and Ofc. Robert Green immediately detected signs of intoxication as MELERO refused repeated commands to produce his license and exit the vehicle. A brief struggle ensued, during which it was discovered that he had a firearm near his feet on the floor beneath him.

MELERO was successfully taken into custody, and the firearm was secured. It was found to be a Glock 17 pistol with no serial number for which MELERO had no license.

MELERO was transported to headquarters, where he was found to have a blood alcohol level of .16, which is twice the legal limit. MELERO was charged with a variety of offenses, including drunk driving, failure to submit to police, resisting arrest, and unlawful possession of a high-capacity firearm and ammunition while intoxicated and unlicensed. MELERO has a previous charge for firearm possession in Rhode Island.

If you have any information concerning crime, you can remain anonymous. Call 508-99-CRIME, or visit our website and leave tips at https://www.newbedfordpd.com/report/”-City of New Bedford Police Department.