News Summary
Authorities in Providence and Fall River have arrested David R. Mello and his girlfriend Juricco M. Castillo for high-level drug dealing. Following a lengthy investigation, a significant amount of cocaine and cash was uncovered, highlighting ongoing drug-related issues in the area. Both suspects face serious charges and are currently held without bail, while investigations into their broader network continue.
Providence
In a significant drug bust, David R. Mello, a 38-year-old man out on parole for murder, and his girlfriend, 37-year-old Juricco M. Castillo, have been arrested in connection with high-level drug dealing. The arrests took place in Providence and Fall River, Massachusetts, following an extensive investigation by the Providence police intelligence and organized crime bureau.
Both Mello and Castillo were apprehended after being monitored for several months, during which detectives utilized surveillance and information from confidential informants. The couple was suspected of operating from their apartment located in South Elmwood.
During a routine traffic stop on Route 95 north, police found $6,000 in cash concealed in a birthday gift bag along with 52.05 grams of cocaine on Mello. Following this incident, authorities conducted a search of their residence at 102 Dixon St., uncovering an additional 44.86 grams of cocaine and over $25,000 in cash. Further investigations revealed that the couple maintained a storage locker in Cranston, which contained approximately $40,000 in cash and multiple bags of cocaine.
The investigation into Mello and Castillo has also linked Mello’s father, who resides in Fall River. A search of his home at 13 Courtney St. returned two kilos of cocaine and about $20,000 in cash, raising concerns about a larger drug distribution network.
Mello and Castillo are facing a range of serious charges, including unlawful delivery of cocaine, possession with intent to deliver cocaine, and maintaining a common nuisance. They were arraigned and are currently being held without bail, pending a future hearing. Authorities also discovered that the couple had a sizable amount in their bank accounts, totaling around $100,000.
Background on David R. Mello
David R. Mello’s past prominence as a convicted murderer has brought significant attention to this case. In 2007, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder for the killing of 20-year-old Marc Quintal during a drug robbery in Providence. Subsequently, he was sentenced to 40 years in prison, with eligibility for parole after serving ten years. Mello was paroled and on probation at the time of his latest arrest, raising questions about his rehabilitation.
The current drug charges highlight the potential risk posed by repeat offenders like Mello, who, despite prior incarceration, found themselves involved in serious criminal activities once again. This case illustrates the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in combatting drug-related crimes, particularly when intertwined with individuals with histories of violent crime.
Ongoing Investigations
The Providence police intelligence and organized crime bureau continue to investigate the wider network surrounding Mello and Castillo. Early indications suggest that Mello’s familial connections may extend the investigation, as authorities sift through evidence to ascertain the scope and scale of their drug operations.
This recent drug bust serves as a stark reminder of the persistent issues surrounding drug trafficking and violent crime in the area, emphasizing the necessity for continued vigilance and robust law enforcement initiatives to combat these serious issues.
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Additional Resources
- Fall River Reporter: Drug Investigation Leads to Two Arrests
- GoLocalProv: Smithfield Police Department Multi-State Cocaine Bust
- ABC6: Providence Police Officer Arrested on Drug Charges
- WPRI: Providence Patrolman Arrested in Drug Raid
- Wikipedia: Drug Trafficking
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
