Pawtucket Drug Bust

On November 12, 2016 at approximately 3:00pm the Pawtucket Police Department Detective Division was investigating the homicide of Robert Baptista, 21, which occurred at 198 Sisson St 3rd. During the course of a court ordered search warrant of 198 Sisson St 3rd the Detectives discovered evidence of the possession, manufacturing and delivery of cocaine from the apartment. Detectives seized 638 grams of cocaine, a .380 semi-automatic handgun and assorted manufacturing material. The evidence indicated that Steven Gibau and Brittany Ragusa of 198 Sisson St 3rd were essential members of the narcotics operation. Arrest warrants were obtained for Gibau and Ragusa respectively.

On November 15, 2016, the Pawtucket Police Department Detective Division in conjunction with the United States Marshal Service and the Rhode Island State Police Violent Fugitive Task Force apprehended Steven Gibau, 29, and Brittany Ragusa, 28, at 535 Roosevelt Ave #308 Central Falls R.I. Both suspects also maintain a residence of 198 Sisson St 3rd Pawtucket R.I.

Steven Gibau was charged with 1) Manufacturing, Possession and Delivery of Cocaine; 2) Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic with Intent to Deliver; 3) Using a Firearm When Committing a Crime of Violence; 4) Maintaining a Common Nuisance and 5) Distribution or Manufacturing In or Near a School Zone.

Brittany Ragusa was charged with 1) Manufacturing, Possession and Delivery of Cocaine; 2) Possession of a Schedule II Narcotic with Intent to Deliver; 3) Using a Firearm When Committing a Crime of Violence; 4) Maintaining a Common Nuisance and 5) Distribution or Manufacturing In or Near a School Zone.

These charges are the result of the narcotics investigation stemming from the homicide case. Further charges may be forthcoming. The investigation into the homicide of Robert Baptista is still on-going and any information regarding the case should be forwarded to Det. Cormier (401)727-9100 ext. 756.