08-05-2025
Northampton man arrested after police search reveals drugs, firearm in Springfield apartment on Belmont Ave
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – A man from Northampton was arrested during an investigation into illegal drug activity on Belmont Ave in Springfield.
In a news release from the Springfield Police Department, for the past several months, the Firearms Investigation Unit were investigating complaints from residents about illegal drug activity in the area of Belmont Avenue. Detective identified the target as 44-year-old Rafael Aviles of Northampton.
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At around 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at an apartment on Belmont Ave. Aviles was inside and detained during the search. Detectives seized approximately 22 grams of powder and crack-cocaine, nearly $2,000, loose ammunition, 15 bags of heroin and a loaded firearm.
Aviles was arrested and charged with the following:
Carrying a Firearm without a License
Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License
Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Firearm Violation with 3 Prior Violent/Drug Crimes
Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of a Felony (Two Counts)
Improper Storage of a Firearm
Possession of Ammunition without an FID Card
Trafficking Cocaine 18-36 Grams
Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Class A Drug – Subsequent Offense
Conspiracy to Violate Drug Law
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