14th person arrested in Hells Angels-linked drug investigation

Normand Godbout, 59, of Grand Falls has been arrested in connection with an RCMP investigation into cocainetrafficking in four New Brunswick counties that has beenlinked to the Hells Angels.

Godbout is charged with conspiracy to traffic in cocaine, trafficking in cocaine, conspiracy to possess cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

He is the 14th person to be arrested as part of an investigation in New Brunswick and Quebectargeting drug trafficking among outlawed motorcycle gangs.

The alleged offences in New Brunswick happened in Restigouche, Gloucester,Madawaskaand Victoria counties.

Nine peoplefrom the Bathurst area were charged on April 25, and four from Quebec were charged.

Those arrested are not members of the Hells Angels, but as a result of the investigation, police believe they have found links to the gang.

Godbout was released from RCMP custody and is expected to enter pleas on June 11, an RCMP news release said.

Several others are expected in court next month, including Raymond Bertrand, who is due for election and plea inBathurston June 11 at 9:30 a.m.

As well, EricDegrace, MarcelFrilot, and Danny Smith are due to have a joint bail hearing inBathurston June 25-27, starting at 9:30 a.m.

Police have seized more than $900,000 cash and 5.6 kilograms of cocaine as theirinvestigation pursued alleged links to the Hells Angels in Quebec.

Though theinvestigations by RCMP and municipal police forces are separate, the RCMPsaid the police forces are collaborating and sharing information.