WEST HAVEN — Police in West Haven have made two significant arrests following a crackdown on narcotics distribution in the area.
In separate incidents, the West Haven Police Department’s Street Crime Unit (SCU) apprehended individuals found in possession of drugs and illicit firearms.
On an undisclosed date in April, the SCU, aided by the Patrol Division, stopped a vehicle driven by Lavelle Shabazz, 32, of West Haven.
The subsequent investigation led to the discovery of cocaine and a loaded P80 pistol lacking a serial number.
Shabazz faces multiple charges, including Carrying a Pistol Without a Permit, Possession of a Firearm Without a Serial Number, Altering Identification Marks on a Firearm, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Operating a Motor Vehicle Without a License.
Later that same evening, SCU officers noticed a suspicious vehicle near the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Main Street.
Assisted again by the Patrol Division, they stopped the car, which was operated by Ramzey Samuel, 29, of New Haven.
Their investigation unearthed crack cocaine, a heroin/Fentanyl mix, MDMA, and a loaded Glock 27 .40 caliber pistol with a fifteen-round magazine.
Samuel, a convicted felon, was found to be in possession of a firearm reported stolen from Rhode Island.
The charges against him include Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Stealing a Firearm, Criminal Possession of Ammunition, Illegal Possession of a Large Capacity Magazine, four counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Operating an Unregistered Motor Vehicle.
The West Haven Police Department’s efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to combat the spread of illegal drugs and weapons in the community.
Both Shabazz and Samuel are currently awaiting further legal proceedings.
