Suspected Bridgeport Narcotics Dealer Arrested; Drugs, Firearm Seized: Police

BRIDGEPORT, CT — A two-month investigation by the Bridgeport Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation into alleged narcotics sales in Bridgeport led to the arrest of a 40-year-old city man and the seizure of drugs, a firearm and cash, authorities said.

Police said the investigation, conducted during March and April, focused on Joseph Moss of Bridgeport. Investigators obtained search warrants for Moss, his vehicle and his Olive Street residence following the inquiry, which was led by Detective Carlos Vazquez and Officer Kevin Bettini.

Authorities executed the warrants on April 28 and recovered what police described as an illegal 1911 firearm loaded with 10mm ammunition, along with an additional loaded magazine containing seven rounds of 9mm ammunition and 46 additional rounds of ammunition.

"The recovered firearm will be submitted to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), a national database utilized by law enforcement agencies to compare ballistic evidence and determine whether the firearm has been used in other crimes or shooting incidents throughout the United States," wrote Bridgeport Police Sgt. Michael Paoletti in a statement.

Investigators also seized about 100 grams of cocaine, approximately 50 ecstasy pills and about 50 pressed pills believed to contain fentanyl, according to police. Authorities said they also recovered narcotics-packaging materials, three digital scales, blenders and other items they said were consistent with the preparation and sale of narcotics.

Police said officers seized about $1,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from narcotics sales.

Moss was charged with criminal possession of a firearm and possession of narcotics with intent to sell. He was released after posting bail on bond of $75,000, and is scheduled to appear in Bridgeport Superior Court on May 27.

Officials said the investigation was part of ongoing efforts by local and federal law enforcement agencies to address illegal narcotics activity in Bridgeport.