A man has been arrested and charged in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred in the Brickenwood Housing development on Harvard St. earlier this month. The New Bedford Police Department reports that the victim, an adult male who suffered several stab wounds, was attacked by two suspects on June 14, 2024. The victim was promptly transported to the hospital and is currently recovering.
Investigations led by Detective Matthew Sylvia of the New Bedford Police Department allowed to quickly develop a probable cause, and subsequently, an arrest warrant was issued. The suspect, 38-year-old Samuel Rodriguez of 195 Amanda Ave., turned himself into authorities at the police headquarters on Thursday, according to the department's official statements. Rodriguez is charged with assault by means of a dangerous weapon causing bodily injury.
Sources close to the case indicate that Rodriguez has been arraigned as an adult 70 times with previous convictions including trafficking heroin, possession of a firearm, and assault and battery on a police officer. This extensive criminal history raises concerns about the efficacy of criminal justice procedures in addressing repeat offenders.
The police continue to seek information from the public that might shed further light on the case. Anyone with knowledge is encouraged to confidentially share information with law enforcement. This can be done anonymously by visiting the New Bedford Police Department website or by directly calling the hotline. As the police aptly put, "If you have any information you would like to share with the police, you can do so anonymously by visiting our website, newbedfordpd.com, or by calling 508-99-CRIME," ensuring the community's involvement in maintaining public safety.
