News Summary The Providence Police Department has arrested three men on charges related to illegal firearm and drug possession as part of an ongoing operation to combat gun violence. Among those arrested are 19-year-olds Oroldo Orellana and Charles Smith, both facing serious charges. A third suspect, 20-year-old Gary Maddox, was also detained with multiple offenses. Additionally, Nelson Forkpa was apprehended after a shooting incident, found with modified firearms. These arrests are part of a larger effort encompassing multiple law enforcement agencies in Rhode Island. Providence Police Department has made significant arrests related to illegal firearm and drug possession, detaining three men on various charges. The arrests were made as part of an ongoing effort to combat gun violence and drug-related crimes in the area. Among those arrested is 19-year-old Oroldo Orellana, who faces multiple serious charges including possession of a stolen firearm and possession of a large capacity feeding device. Another 19-year-old, Charles Smith, was also taken into custody with similar charges, including requiring a license or permit to carry a firearm. The third suspect, 20-year-old Gary Maddox, faces an extensive list of charges including possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a large capacity feeding device, possession of a firearm while committing a crime of violence, and possession with intent to deliver marijuana. Police confiscated two handguns during these arrests. In a separate incident, Nelson Forkpa was arrested following a shooting incident. He was found in possession of two firearms equipped with machine gun conversion devices during a search conducted by law enforcement agencies. The search was executed as part of an inquiry into a gang dispute that took place in December 2024. Forkpa is facing multiple charges related to possession and modification of firearms. These arrests are part of a larger operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies throughout Rhode Island. The police are conducting ongoing investigations, which have resulted in the seizure of 12 firearms and narcotics, reflecting the persistent issue of illegal weapon possession and drug trafficking in the region. The operations are being carried out in collaboration with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office. The escalation of firearm-related incidents highlights the necessity for law enforcement agencies to increase their vigilance and engagement in communities plagued by gun violence and drug-related issues. It is hoped that these arrests can help mitigate such crimes in the future. The illegal possession of firearms and drugs has continually posed significant challenges to public safety in Providence and surrounding areas. The collaborative efforts of local law enforcement agencies and state officials aim to address these concerns more effectively, showcasing the importance of community and institutional partnerships in combating crime. Providence Police Department encourages community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that may be related to firearms or drug offenses. Ongoing community policing initiatives and partnerships with local organizations are aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Multiple Traffic Incidents Cause Disruptions in Providence Serious Crash in East Providence Leaves Two Injured Significant Arrests Made in Cranston Amid Violent Incidents Charlie Kirk Killed at Utah Valley University Rally Drug Trafficking and Retail Theft in Providence Lead to Multiple Arrests David Morales Announces Candidacy for Providence Mayor Fugitive Robert Johnston Arrested by Rhode Island State Police Rhode Island Officials Heighten Security Amid Political Violence Shooting at Family Gathering Leaves Two Injured in Providence Shooting Incident Leaves Two Injured in Providence Additional Resources ABC6: Providence Police Arrest 3 Men Suspected of Possessing Guns and Narcotics GoLocalProv: 7 Indicted by Feds Tied to Drug Trafficking and Firearms Investigations Valley Breeze: 12 Firearms and More Seized in Multi-Agency Investigation WPRI: Police: Providence Trio Ran Illegal Car Rental Tied to Guns, Drugs Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control Google Search: Firearm Violence Statistics
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.
