Executive Summary
- New Bedford Police arrested two suspects, including a repeat offender, in the South End.
- Authorities seized an untraceable Poly80 “ghost gun” and 28 grams of cocaine.
- Julio Camacho, one of the arrestees, reportedly has 105 prior criminal entries on his record.
New Bedford Police arrested two individuals on December 22, seizing an untraceable “ghost gun” and trafficking-level narcotics following a targeted surveillance operation in the city’s South End. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Massachusetts State Police, resulted in the apprehension of a repeat offender with a significant criminal history.
According to the New Bedford Police Department, Detective Stephanie Connolly initiated the investigation after observing Julio Camacho, 39, and Christina Duarte, 44, entering a vehicle. Detective Connolly had reportedly received intelligence indicating that Camacho was illegally in possession of a firearm. Upon coordinating with state troopers, law enforcement officials intercepted the vehicle and detained both occupants.
A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered an untraceable Poly80 firearm—commonly referred to as a “ghost gun”—concealed on the front passenger side. Police stated that Camacho was found in possession of a crack pipe, fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine, and $126 in cash. Department records indicate that Camacho has an extensive criminal history, comprising 105 adult entries, including multiple convictions for violent and drug-related offenses. At the time of his arrest, he reportedly had multiple outstanding warrants.
Camacho now faces numerous charges, including carrying a firearm without a license, trafficking 18 grams or more of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute Class A and Class B substances, and possession of an untraceable firearm. Duarte has been charged with carrying an untraceable firearm without a license.
Investigative & Legal Context
The recovery of a Poly80 firearm highlights the growing challenge law enforcement agencies face regarding privately manufactured firearms that lack serial numbers, making them difficult to trace. Additionally, the arrest of a suspect with over 100 prior criminal entries underscores ongoing efforts to address recidivism within the criminal justice system. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
