WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - West Springfield Police said a wanted fugitive was arrested and caught with nearly 16 grams of methamphetamine. On Thursday, the Narcotics Unit arrested 32-year-old Rafael Urena-Mendez of Springfield near Riverdale Street.

Investigators had been tipped off that a known fugitive was heading into town and identified Urena-Mendez as he arrived in a rideshare vehicle, taking him into custody without incident.

Officers said they found about 15.9 grams of meth on him. Urena-Mendez was already wanted on 5 outstanding warrants out of Springfield District Court and is also sought for extradition by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida.

He now faces new charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and fugitive from justice on a court warrant.

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