News Summary
Police in Providence have arrested 11 individuals linked to organized crime following a thorough investigation into firearms and drug trafficking activities. The investigation, prompted by a highway shooting, uncovered a network engaging in various criminal behaviors, leading to multiple charges against the suspects. Law enforcement seized firearms, illegal drugs, and cash during their operations, demonstrating a strong collaborative effort to enhance community safety by combating illegal activities in the region.
Providence, Rhode Island – Following a lengthy investigation that stemmed from a highway shooting in October 2023, police have arrested 11 individuals linked to organized crime activities related to firearms and drug trafficking. The investigation, which identified a network of criminals involved in various illegal activities, has led to significant law enforcement efforts and a range of serious charges against the suspects.
The multi-year investigation began on October 21, 2023, after a shooting incident occurred on Route 95 near the Providence Place Mall. In the wake of this violent event, authorities uncovered a broad spectrum of criminal behavior including drugs, gun offenses, fraud, and additional violent incidents. Notably, two more shootings were recorded during the investigation on November 24, 2023, in Pawtucket, and on May 26, 2024, in Johnston.
To execute the comprehensive investigation, the Rhode Island State Police conducted 130 search warrants. As a result of these operations, law enforcement seized five firearms, six high-capacity feeding devices, 738 grams of illegal drugs, and approximately $42,000 in cash. The collaborative effort included the Pawtucket and Johnston police departments, along with various state agencies such as the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. Marshal Service.
The arrested individuals have been identified as having direct ties to local gangs, with several facing serious charges. Among those charged is Enrique Miranda, 35, who faces multiple charges including a drive-by shooting, assault with intent to commit murder, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Another key suspect, Jarvon Brown, also 35, has been charged with similar offenses, including drive-by shooting and possession with intent to deliver MDMA/Ecstasy.
Other individuals apprehended include Lavell Poston, Chance McKinney, Eric Grundy, Benjamin Garcia, and Odell Foye, each facing serious charges pertaining to firearms and controlled substances. In a separate incident, Aroldo Orellana and Charles Smith, both aged 19, along with Gary Maddox, 20, were arrested for unlawfully possessing weapons and drugs during a search warrant execution on Atwells Avenue.
In addition, Joel Garcia, 47, was taken into custody on charges related to possession with intent to deliver fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, along with various firearm-related violations. He was apprehended by the Rhode Island State Police High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area task force.
All arrested individuals were processed and subsequently taken to the Adult Correctional Institutions Intake Center for arraignment. This series of arrests forms part of a broader initiative by law enforcement to combat illegal activities involving firearms and narcotics in the region, aiming to enhance community safety and reduce crime rates.
The extensive operation showcases the dedication and collaboration across police departments and agencies in Rhode Island in their ongoing efforts to dismantle organized crime networks and address drug-related issues in the state. Through continuous investigations and public safety initiatives, authorities seek to ensure a safer environment for the residents of Providence and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Patch: Task Force Takes Down Providence Man on Gun Charges
- Wikipedia: Organized Crime
- WPRI: 3 Men Facing Gun & Drug Charges After Providence Search
- Google Search: Gun & Drug Charges Providence
- Turn to 10: Providence Police Briefing on Narcotics Arrest
- Google Scholar: Narcotics Arrests Rhode Island
- Providence Journal: Cranston Day Care Center Raid
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Enforcement
- GoLocalProv: Operation Brick Houses – 11 Arrests
- Google News: Providence Operation Brick Houses
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.
