Police accuse man and woman from Fall River of trafficking crack cocaine

NEW BEDFORD – Detectives have placed both a Fall River man and woman under arrest for allegedly trafficking crack cocaine.

On the evening of December 1st, narcotics detectives were conducting surveillance in the west-end sector of New Bedford. Det. Sgt. Jarrod Gracia was monitoring the area of the Bullock St./Trinity St. intersection, in response to anonymous information concerning possible drug activity. At approximately 8:00 p.m., he observed what he believed to be a drug transaction taking place at this location involving a couple in a Mercedes.

The vehicle was followed until it was ultimately stopped by officers at the Austin St./Richmond St. intersection. It was found to contain two occupants, the operator, 46-year-old Keith Santerre and his girlfriend, 42-year-old Jennifer Santos both of Fall River.

As the result of a subsequent search, Santerre and Santos were found to be in possession of over 43 grams of “crack” cocaine, along with a digital scale that was covered in a white, powdery substance. Additionally, Santerre was found to have two active warrants for his arrest.

Both parties were placed under arrest and are being charged with trafficking in crack cocaine and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance laws.

New Bedford Police stated that Santerre has an extensive history of convictions for a variety of offenses including armed robbery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and drug possession. At this time, he is being held in the custody of the Bristol County Sheriff.

The case was investigated by Detective Sgt. Jarrod Gracia and Det. Samuel Mojica-Algarin.