More Arrests Made After Fireworks Targeted New Bedford Police Officers

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — Two more people are being charged in an incident in which fireworks were thrown at New Bedford police officers.

New Bedford Police responded to Montes Park at around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 5 to help disperse the large crowd following Cape Verdean Independence Day festivities.

While attempting to move people from the area, a lit firework was thrown near the officers, and officers had to move away to avoid debris. A second lit firework was then thrown directly at the officers, striking three of them. A third lit firework was thrown into a nearby tree.

At the time, officers attempted to place a suspect into custody, but he fled on foot and was apprehended after a brief pursuit. Jhan Carlos Baez, 19, was arrested and initially charged with three counts of assault and battery on a police officer, three counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. However, some of those charges were later dropped.

Investigation Reopened Following Body Cam Review

“Following the department's initial press release and the release of body-worn camera footage, additional evidence came to light, prompting officers to reopen the investigation,” police said. “As a result, Baez is now charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.”

Additional Arrest Involves Loaded Firearm Charge

The further investigation led police to arrest Keishon Patterson, 26, of New Bedford on Wednesday on an active warrant stemming from the Sunday incident. He is charged with three counts of assault and battery on a police officer, three counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, disorderly conduct, a warrant arrest, and unlawful possession of fireworks.

At the time of his arrest, Patterson was also allegedly in possession of a loaded black Ruger LCP handgun with six rounds of .380-caliber ammunition. Police said he does not possess a valid License to Carry. He was additionally charged with carrying a firearm without a license and carrying a loaded firearm without a license.

Courtesy New Bedford Police

A criminal summons was also issued for Juante Lewis, 24, of New Bedford charging him with three counts of assault and battery on a police officer, three counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and disorderly conduct.

Public Safety Threats and Police Department Response

"Our officers showed tremendous restraint and professionalism while managing a dangerous and rapidly evolving situation. Their work didn't end that night,” New Bedford Police Chief Jason Thody said. “Through diligent follow-up investigation, they identified and held additional individuals accountable. The fact that one of those arrested was illegally carrying a loaded firearm underscores that these incidents can quickly escalate beyond reckless behavior and pose a serious threat to the safety of our officers and the public."