Two Men Arrested with Fentanyl After South-End Drug Transaction

New Bedford, MA — Patrol officers have taken two men into custody after observing a drug transaction in the city’s south end.

On Saturday, March 1st, Sgt. Jonathan Lagoa was patrolling Acushnet Avenue between Blackmer Street and Delano Street. Neighbors and nearby businesses frequently complain about the activity in this area, which police know to be a hot spot for drug activity.

Sgt. Lagoa observed two individuals engaged in a drug transaction. The two were identified as JOSHUA TRAVASSOS, 30, of 47 Acushnet Ave., and KEITH FLEMING, 38, of 57 Briggs St., #1.  Upon approach, TRAVASSOS began to struggle with Sgt. Lagoa as both men attempted to discard items in their hands.  Both men were eventually secured with the assistance of additional patrol units.

As a result of the search that followed, the men were found to be in possession of over 50 grams of fentanyl and 8 grams of cocaine.  Both men were taken into custody and charged with trafficking fentanyl in excess of 36 grams, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws.  TRAVASSOS had $1186 in cash and FLEMING had $140.  All money was seized as a result of the nature of the charges.

TRAVOSSOS faces additional charges for being a repeat offender following a conviction in Bristol Superior Court for possession with intent to distribute cocaine in 2018.

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