Bristol Police arrest two Massachusetts men in connection with car theft scheme

Nelshon Pires (left) and Andy Semedo (right). | Bristol Police Department

Two Brockton, Massachusetts men were arrested in Bristol, CT on Dec. 8, 2024, after being caught with burglary tools and technology that could be used to steal vehicles, marking a significant step in an ongoing investigation into recent car thefts in the area.

Bristol Police responded to a report of suspicious activity near East Main Street and quickly identified the individuals as Nelshon Pires and Andy Semedo. The pair were located near Blasius of Bristol, a local dealership that has been the target of multiple high-value vehicle thefts in recent years. Officers found that Pires and Semedo were in possession of tools that could allow them to bypass car locks and operate vehicles without the original keys.

Both men were arrested and charged with possession of burglary tools. After posting bond, they were released and are scheduled to appear in New Britain Superior Court on Dec. 23, 2024.

Following the arrest, Bristol Police shared the information with law enforcement agencies in Massachusetts. As a result, authorities executed multiple search warrants in Brockton on Dec. 11 and Dec. 12, 2024. During these searches, Pires and Semedo were arrested again, and additional evidence was found that potentially links Pires to the earlier arrest in Bristol.

The case remains under investigation, and authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the stolen vehicle network. Detectives are urging car dealerships and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement.


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About the Author

Laura Bailey
Photographer and photojournalist living in Bristol Connecticut

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