Providence, Rhode Island – Rhode Island State Police announced the arrest of seven individuals following a coordinated investigation into an alleged street gang believed to be involved in illegal firearms possession and drug trafficking across several Rhode Island communities. Authorities say the arrests stem from a targeted operation carried out late last week after weeks of intelligence gathering.
Incident Overview
The investigation focused on an organized criminal group known as “Bucket West,” which law enforcement officials describe as a street gang suspected of involvement in firearms offenses and narcotics distribution. According to police, the group was operating across multiple cities, prompting a broad enforcement response.
The operation was led by the Rhode Island State Police, with assistance from specialized units tasked with addressing violent crime and illegal drug activity. Officials emphasized that the arrests were the result of proactive policing aimed at reducing gun violence and drug-related harm.
Timeline of Events
State police say the investigation unfolded over several weeks as officers gathered intelligence, conducted surveillance, and sought judicial authorization to proceed. The operation culminated last week when court-authorized search warrants were executed at multiple locations throughout the state, including Providence, Pawtucket, Barrington, and Woonsocket.
During these searches, officers recovered evidence they say directly links the suspects to illegal weapons possession and drug trafficking activities.
Details From Police and Officials
In a statement released after the arrests, state police highlighted the scale of the seizure and the public safety implications…