‘The Codfather’ fishing magnate pleads not guilty to charges
WORCESTER, Mass. – A Massachusetts fishing magnate known as “The Codfather” has pleaded not guilty to a variety of federal charges including lying on catch reports and cash smuggling.
Dartmouth resident Carlos Rafael appeared in federal court in Worcester on Thursday to face 27 counts. His bond was increased from $1 million to $2 million.
Rafael is the owner of one of the nation’s largest commercial fishing operations. He has more than 30 vessels in his fleet, 44 commercial fishing permits and the Carlos Seafood business in New Bedford.
The Standard-Times (http://bit.ly/1ZMDoQz ) reports that prosecutors requested additional bail after learning that Rafael has U.S. and Portuguese citizenship. His attorney agreed to the bail, saying his client has put up his home and a fishing vessel as collateral.
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This story has been corrected to show Rafael was released, not held, on $2 million bail.
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