For immediate release
GLOUCESTER — Chief Edward Conley reports that the Gloucester Police Department arrested and charged an Essex man with firearm and larceny charges as a result of an investigation.
GERARD E. FRANCIS JR., AGE 36, OF ESSEX, was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of a Firearm without an FID
- Possession of Ammunition without an FID
- Possession of a Large Capacity Firearm
- Larceny over $1,200
- Possession of a Class B Substance (Subsequent Offense)
- Resisting Arrest
On Tuesday, Sept. 24, at approximately 7:50 p.m., Officer Julio Mercado was dispatched to a business at 46 Maplewood Ave. for a report of a larceny of an E-bike.
Officer Mercado spoke to the E-bike’s owner, and during a subsequent investigation obtained a description of a suspect who took the E-bike.
A short time later, Officer Kevin Mackey located a suspect near Willow and Cleveland streets who fit the description of the suspect.
Officers found probable cause to pat frisk FRANCIS for a weapon, and located a black handgun in FRANCIS‘ waistband.
FRANCIS attempted to run from police but was caught a short distance away and taken into custody. A subsequent search of his person located a large-capacity Glock 17 handgun, 28 rounds of ammunition, over $1,700 in cash, drug paraphernalia and a small amount of cocaine.
Officers found the stolen E-bike a short distance away and returned it to its owner.
FRANCIS was arraigned Wednesday in Gloucester District Court, where he was ordered held without bail pending a dangerousness hearing that is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1.
“This case, which began as a seemingly basic investigation, exemplifies the high standard of policing we strive for and highlights the value of sound procedural knowledge and attention to detail,” said Chief Conley, who praised all officers involved. “This arrest removed a dangerous individual and a firearm from our community, underscoring the importance of remaining vigilant and methodical in our approach to policing.”
