Rhode Island State Police Arrest “Bucket West” Gang Members on Firearm & Drug Trafficking Charges

January 30, 2026 – Rhode Island

In a major law enforcement operation, the Rhode Island State Police have arrested seven individuals connected to an organized criminal group known as the “Bucket West” gang, charging them with a range of firearms and drug trafficking offenses. The arrests come after weeks of investigative work targeting illegal gun possession and the distribution of dangerous narcotics across the state.

Organized Crime Targeted

State police officials say the group was believed to be involved in the illegal distribution of drugs — including fentanyl, crack cocaine, marijuana, and MMDA, as well as the possession and trafficking of unlawful firearms. A series of court-authorized search warrants were executed at multiple locations connected to the suspects, leading to significant seizures of contraband.

During the operation, troopers recovered:

  • Three firearms, including weapons with extended magazines

  • Ammunition

  • Fentanyl and other controlled substances

  • Drug packaging material believed to be used for distribution activity

Suspects Named

The Rhode Island State Police released the names and ages of the individuals arrested as part of this investigation:

  • Larenz Brantley, 22, of Providence

  • Addison Brito, 33, of Pawtucket

  • Alexander Cardarelli, 26, of Barrington

  • Neshion Cook, 21, of Pawtucket

  • Mekhi Henderson, 27, of Woonsocket

  • Ebrima Jatta, 29, of Pawtucket

  • Hassan Jatta, 29, of Pawtucket

All seven now face a variety of drug distribution and firearm charges.

Additional Charges for One Defendant

In a noteworthy development, authorities also linked Ebrima Jatta to an outstanding arrest warrant related to a Pawtucket home invasion and robbery. That separate case adds an additional layer of serious allegations against one of the suspects.

Continued Focus on Public Safety

State police say this operation represents just one of many ongoing efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks that pose a direct threat to Rhode Island communities. Law enforcement agencies across the region have been working collaboratively to combat the spread of fentanyl and other illegal drugs, which have contributed to a dramatic rise in overdoses and violent crime.

Officials did not immediately release further details about court dates or the specific charges filed against each individual, but said additional updates will be provided as cases progress through the legal system.