NEW BEDFORD — A Providence man was arrested for drunk driving and unlawful possession of a firearm following a traffic stop in New Bedford early on April 14.
Eliezer Melero, 27, was taken into custody after patrol officers encountered his vehicle stopped on Norwell St. around 3 a.m. Officers Jacob Rebello and Robert Green noted signs of intoxication when Melero failed to comply with commands to show his license and exit the car.
A struggle occurred during which officers discovered a Glock 17 pistol without a serial number near Melero’s feet.
With Melero in custody, the firearm was secured, and subsequent testing revealed his blood alcohol level to be .16, double the legal limit.
Melero faces charges including drunk driving, resisting arrest, and unlawful possession of a high-capacity firearm and ammunition.
Melero has a prior firearm possession charge in Rhode Island.
The New Bedford Police Department encourages anyone with information on crime to contact them at 508-99-CRIME or leave anonymous tips at their website.
