A 20-year-old individual is facing multiple legal charges following his arrest in Mattapan, Boston, on Sunday afternoon. Authorities detained the man, identified as Kesner Forestdale from Dorchester, after a reported “violent struggle” with law enforcement officers. The charges include carrying a loaded rifle in a public area, along with assault and battery on a police officer.
Boston Police noted that Forestdale was already under investigation in several active firearm-related cases and was known to own multiple weapons. The incident unfolded when officers observed him carrying a black duffel bag near Harvard and Standish streets in Mattapan. Surveillance continued as he was subsequently stopped near Harvard and Bernard streets.
As officers attempted to conduct a pat frisk of the duffel bag, Forestdale allegedly tried to flee. A confrontation ensued, during which he reportedly “violently pushed” an officer in the face and actively resisted arrest. Once restrained, authorities discovered a black rifle identified as a Smith and Wesson M&P 15-22, fully loaded with 22 rounds, inside the bag.
Further examination revealed an additional firearm, a Springfield Armory XD9 with 16 rounds in its magazine, along with multiple plastic bags containing drugs. Forestdale now faces charges including unlawful possession of firearms, carrying a loaded rifle on a public way, unlawful possession of ammunition without a Firearm Identification Card, and possession with intent to distribute Class A and Class B drugs. He is also accused of resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer, alongside two counts each of unlawful possession of a loaded firearm and possession of a large-capacity feeding device.
Forestdale is expected to appear in Boston Municipal Court in Dorchester for arraignment on these charges.