Providence, Rhode Island – Rhode Island State Police announced the arrest of seven individuals following a coordinated investigation into an alleged street gang believed to be involved in illegal firearms possession and drug trafficking across several Rhode Island communities. Authorities say the arrests stem from a targeted operation carried out late last week after weeks of intelligence gathering.
Incident Overview
The investigation focused on an organized criminal group known as “Bucket West,” which law enforcement officials describe as a street gang suspected of involvement in firearms offenses and narcotics distribution. According to police, the group was operating across multiple cities, prompting a broad enforcement response.
The operation was led by the Rhode Island State Police, with assistance from specialized units tasked with addressing violent crime and illegal drug activity. Officials emphasized that the arrests were the result of proactive policing aimed at reducing gun violence and drug-related harm.
Timeline of Events
State police say the investigation unfolded over several weeks as officers gathered intelligence, conducted surveillance, and sought judicial authorization to proceed. The operation culminated last week when court-authorized search warrants were executed at multiple locations throughout the state, including Providence, Pawtucket, Barrington, and Woonsocket.
During these searches, officers recovered evidence they say directly links the suspects to illegal weapons possession and drug trafficking activities.
Details From Police and Officials
In a statement released after the arrests, state police highlighted the scale of the seizure and the public safety implications.
“This investigation targeted an organized criminal group believed to be responsible for illegal firearms possession and the distribution of dangerous narcotics,” police said, noting that the operation was intended to disrupt ongoing criminal activity and prevent future violence.
Authorities confirmed that three firearms were seized, along with ammunition and extended magazines. In addition to weapons, police recovered multiple controlled substances and materials commonly associated with drug distribution.
Key Facts From the Investigation
The following seven individuals were arrested as part of the operation and now face drug and firearms charges, according to officials:
- Larenz Brantley, 22, of Providence
- Addison Brito, 33, of Pawtucket
- Alexander Cardarelli, 26, of Barrington
- Neshion Cook, 21, of Pawtucket
- Mekhi Henderson, 27, of Woonsocket
- Ebrima Jatta, 29, of Pawtucket
- Hassan Jatta, 29, of Pawtucket
Police reported seizing fentanyl, crack cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, and drug packaging materials, which they say indicate intent to distribute rather than personal use.
Additional Criminal Allegations
In addition to the drug and firearm charges tied to the gang investigation, authorities said Ebrima Jatta was also arrested on an affidavit and arrest warrant related to robbery charges. Those charges stem from a home invasion incident in Pawtucket, which investigators believe is separate but relevant to the broader criminal activity under review.
Officials did not release further details about the home invasion but confirmed that the case remains under investigation.
Additional Context and Public Safety Impact
Law enforcement leaders continue to stress the dangers posed by the combination of illegal firearms and high-risk drugs such as fentanyl, which has been linked to a surge in overdose deaths nationwide. Police say organized groups involved in both weapons and narcotics trafficking significantly increase the risk of violence in local neighborhoods.
State police encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, noting that community cooperation plays a crucial role in disrupting organized crime networks before violence occurs.
Conclusion
The arrests mark a significant step in Rhode Island State Police’s ongoing efforts to combat gang-related crime, illegal firearms, and drug trafficking across the state. While the legal process is still unfolding, officials say the operation removed dangerous weapons and drugs from the streets and underscores the importance of coordinated law enforcement action.
If you have concerns about illegal activity in your neighborhood or information that could assist investigators, authorities encourage you to contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
