Armed Robbers with Gang Ties Apprehended after Robbing Teen at Gunpoint

Two men are in custody, including a man who police said is a "notorious Bloods gang member with ties to New Jersey," after a 19-year-old was attacked and robbed at gunpoint while out for a bike ride near Farmington Avenue last week.

Police said Kenneth Lovett and Joseph Figueroa were arrested in connection with the Sept. 27 incident during which the teenage male was approached by a pistol-carrying man, identified as Lovett, wearing dark clothing and a ski mask. Lovett then pulled the victim off his bike, punched him in the head and back, according to reports, and stole all of his personal property, including a backpack and cell phone.

Once police got the call, Sgt. David Jubinville responded and saw a green Toyota speeding on Cranston Street. The vehicle, which was driven by Figueroa, gave chase. 

As Jubinville followed, the Toyota slowed on Priscilla Avenue where Lovett got out and fled. Jubinville notified backup and kept following the Toyota, which eventually stopped on Dora Street in Providence where Figueora was taken into custody without incident.

Back on Priscilla Avenue, police found a small black fully loaded Smith and Wesson handgun.

Thanks to a "lengthy and joint investigation" by Cranston Police detectives, Providence Police, and the Adult Correctional Institute's Special Investigations Unit, police soon identified the fleeing suspect who dropped the gun as Lovett.

Lovett, a Bloods member, has a lengthy criminal career with convictions for robbery, weapons possession and delivery of narcotics in Rhode Island and New Jersey, police said.

Armed with a warrant, police took Lovett into custody at his house at 112 Eastwood Ave. in Providence with help from the Providence Police Department Robbery and Violent Crime Task Force.

Figueroa is now facing charges of first degree robbery, conspiracy, receiving stolen goods and reckless driving. Lovett is being charged with first degree robbery, conspiracy, receiving stolen goods, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm while committing a crime of violence.

Both men are also facing additional charges in connection with two other armed robberies that happened in Providence.

A search of Figueroa's car led police to a cache of additional cell phones and other evidence that leads Cranston Police to believe there are other victims. Anyone with any information is asked to call Det. Sgt. Pezzullo at 401-477-5048.

“Outstanding police work and excellent teamwork with members of the Providence Police," said Cranston Police Chief Marco Palombo Jr. "Two dangerous felons are off the streets due to the great work by Cranston and Providence Detectives.“