Victor Tan Chen, 31, a convicted felon, was arrested on federal gun charges during a raid in Hopkinton, Rhode Island. Authorities charged Tan Chen with possession of a firearm by a convicted criminal after discovering a Glock semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number, ammunition, and a laser attachment in his home on Main Street in the Ashaway section of town.
Federal agents had been monitoring Tan Chen for suspected cocaine dealing. Investigators also uncovered baggies containing a white powdery substance, a digital scale, and evidence linking him to drug dealing activities. Court documents reveal that a confidential informant arranged a drug purchase from Tan Chen earlier in January.
In addition to the firearms and drugs, investigators found clothing with the insignia of the Hanover Boyz street gang, indicating possible gang involvement.
Tan Chen, who had a history of criminal convictions, was previously sentenced to three years in prison in 2021 for drug possession with intent to deliver. In that case, Westerly police seized $40,000 to $50,000 worth of pills and a handgun. Additionally, in 2015, he was convicted of robbery and burglary in Connecticut.
Tan Chen is now facing federal charges related to gun possession and drug trafficking, marking a significant bust in ongoing efforts to combat organized crime.
