7 Guns Seized, Providence Man Arrested Following Pot Probe: Police

PROVIDENCE, RI — A months=long investigation led to the seizure of seven guns and the arrest of a Providence man, police said.

Eric Aponte, 26, was charged with using a firearm when committing a crime of violence, manufacturing, possessing or selling with the intent to manufacture or sell marijuana, large capacity feeding devices prohibited, unsafe storage of firearms, and carrying a pistol or revolver without a license or permit.

The Providence Police Department Violent Crime Task Force investigated Aponte for months "after developing information that he was in possession of multiple firearms and allegedly selling marijuana," according to a media release.

On Tuesday, the task force "located Aponte on Cranston Street and took him into custody," the release said.

"Investigators subsequently executed a court-authorized search warrant at his residence," according to the release. "During the search, officers located and seized seven firearms, including an AR-15-style rifle and a Micro Draco rifle, along with multiple magazines, ammunition and firearm accessories."

Police also seized marijuana, a digital scale and packaging materials, the release said.

"The investigation also revealed that a child was inside the residence, where multiple firearms were accessible," according to the release. "The child's custody was transferred to a family member, and the Department of Children, Youth and Families was notified."

“Getting illegal firearms off our streets remains a priority for the Providence Police Department," Providence police Col. Oscar Perez said in the release.

"This investigation highlights the importance of proactive police work and our commitment to holding individuals accountable when their actions put the safety of our community, particularly children, at risk,”Perez said.

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