New Bedford Police: 22 Arrests in Crackdown on Downtown Area

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Acting Police Chief Derek Belong is making it a priority to eliminate some of the unruly behavior in the area of the bus terminal and public library branch downtown.

Residents and business owners have long complained about those who congregate in that area, often while intoxicated, and many of whom are homeless.

In a press release, the New Bedford Police Department said officers “have been concentrating their efforts in the downtown area in response to recent complaints.” Police said that led to “an increased focus on the unruly and often intoxicated groups that congregate around the SRTA bus terminal, library and Custom House Square.”

22 People Arrested Downtown in the Past Three Weeks

As a result of the focus, police have made 22 arrests in the past three weeks, for a variety of offenses including assault and battery, disorderly conduct and trespassing.

Many of the individuals arrested were openly drinking in public. Several were trespassing in the nearby parking garages,” police said. “During one incident, an unruly group was being moved off of SRTA property when one male threatened police and was being subdued when his girlfriend interfered and assaulted a police officer. Both were taken into custody and charged.”

Acting Chief Belong: Commitment to Addressing Community Concerns

Belong, who stepped in as Acting Chief upon the retirement of former New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira on May 3, said the goal is “a safe and respectful environment for all residents and visitors” to the city.

"The recent increase in arrests downtown for offenses such as public drinking and disorderly behavior highlights our commitment to addressing community concerns. I'm proud of our officers and their dedication to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all residents and visitors. I'm also grateful for the many outreach efforts in place that aim to offer help and support before police involvement becomes necessary." — Acting New Bedford Police Chief Derek Belong

Not Just Arrests, Also Outreach

The department said that “in addition to stepping up enforcement, the department has also intensified its efforts at outreach.”

“Our LEAD team, recovery coaches, and mental health counselors are on the street, working beside officers, and reaching out directly to those struggling with addiction, alcoholism, and homelessness,” police said.