IDENTITY FRAUD

Around 1:45 p.m., Dec. 21, Johnston Police responded to an unidentified in town bank (police redacted the name of the bank in the public arrest report)after a teller reported a woman was allegedly attempting to pass a fraudulent check, while also using a stolen debit card and driver’s license.

The caller informed police that the suspect was currently in the drive-through teller lane, operating a white SUV. She was described as a white female with blonde hair.

Johnston Police Administrative Division Commander Capt. Joseph Salvadore followed the vehicle from the bank parking lot, onto Atwood Avenue northbound, then onto Route 6 eastbound, according to the incident report.

Police initiated a motor vehicle stop and identified the suspect as Melissa Escomilha, of 192 Pond St., Woonsocket. She was taken into custody.

Upon arrival at the bank, Johnston Police Patrolman Matthew V. Leveillee met with the branch manager and the teller. They told police that the suspect handed the teller a license, bank debit card and a check for $3,000. Police collected documentary evidence and surveillance images at the scene.

Escomilha was placed under arrest and charged with Forgery (felony), Identity Fraud (first offense; felony), Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses (attempted; a felony), and Receiving Stolen Goods (misdemeanor).

WARRANT ARREST

At 4:56 p.m. on Jan. 3, Cranston Police arrested Alexandra Pontarelli, 28, of 5 Tarragon Drive, Johnston, on an Outstanding Arrest Warrant issued by the West Warwick Police Department. The arrest was the result of a motor vehicle stop in the area of Randall Street and Kingwood Street. Pontarelli was transferred over to the West Warwick Police Department.

RISP NEW YEARS DUI REPORT

The Rhode Island State Police (RISP) announced troopers made 13 DUI arrests over the New Year's Holiday Weekend.

During the course of the New Year's holiday weekend, the State Police report that 13 individuals were arrested for Driving Under the Influence, according to a press release.

State Troopers said they also investigated 54 motor vehicle crashes and issued 424 summons for traffic violations.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The following police log information has been taken from public record police incident and arrest reports provided by the Johnston Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies.