FALL RIVER — Detectives from the Vice, Gang, and Intelligence unit arrested four individuals, including three juveniles, on Nov. 14 after a surveillance operation led to the discovery of illegal firearms in the Maple Gardens Housing development.
According to the authorities, while conducting their surveillance, detectives developed information about a 16-year-old juvenile in possession of a firearm.
Upon responding to the area, detectives found the juvenile accompanied by another 16-year-old male.
When the juveniles noticed the detectives, they fled to a nearby vehicle, which tried to depart the scene.
Detectives initiated a traffic stop, which resulted in the seizure of a polymer 80 Ghost Gun and a BB gun, which closely resemble each other, posing a significant challenge for officers required to make quick decisions in such situations.
Arrested were three juveniles and 20-year-old Angel Andres Martinez Malave.
Martinez Malave faces charges that include carrying a firearm without a license, possession of a large capacity firearm, underage possession of alcohol, and conspiracy.
The first 16-year-old male is charged with similar firearm-related offenses and conspiracy.
The second 16-year-old male faces additional charges, including disorderly conduct, assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, and possession of a BB gun by a minor, along with an outstanding arrest warrant.
A 17-year-old female was also charged with multiple firearm-related offenses, possession of self-defense spray by a youthful offender, disorderly conduct, and conspiracy.
The investigation underscores the ongoing issue of juvenile involvement in firearm-related crimes and the dangers law enforcement officers face in their efforts to keep communities safe.
The suspects are currently in custody as the legal process moves forward.
