U.S. Marshals Apprehend Fugitive In Norwich

NORWICH, CT — A fugitive wanted on several charges involving firearms was captured in Norwich Thursday.

Tremaine Dowdell, 31, is charged with attempt to commit first-degree assault, unlawful discharge of a firearm, carrying a pistol without a permit, reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a firearm, and first-degree criminal mischief.

Dowdell also faces a federal charge of violation of supervised release.

He was taken into custody Thursday following a joint operation involving the U.S. Marshals, Connecticut State Police Tactical Unit and the Norwich Police Department.

Dowdell was arrested in 2019 for being a felon in possession of a handgun, marshals said. At that time, he was put on federal probation.

Police in Providence, Rhode Island arrested him on May 25, 2024 for possession of a “ghost gun.” Because of that arrest, a federal arrest warrant was issued on May 30, 2024 for Dowdell for violating his probation, U.S. Marshals said, in an announcement.

A separate arrest warrant was issued for Dowdell for a shooting in New London on June 8, 2024, officials said.

While trying to capture Dowdell, U.S. Marshals determined he led a “transient” lifestyle around New England.

However, marshals recently learned he was hiding at a residence on Boswell Avenue in Norwich, prompting Thursday’s law enforcement operation to take him into custody.

Norwich police said no one was injured during the operation.

Dowdell was transferred to the New London Police Department for booking on charges related to the 2024 incident.

Dowdell is next due to appear in Superior Court in New London on April 28.