New Bedford’s ‘Codfather’ Looking for Deal with Feds

BOSTON - New Bedford fishing magnate Carlos Rafael is reportedly looking for a deal with the feds.

Rafael was expected to go on trial next month for lying to federal regulators about the type and amount of fish his boats were catching, and selling excess catch to buyers in New York.

According to The Gloucester Times, a motion for a continuance of his trial was filed by Rafael's attorney, William Kettlewell. The motion states the short continuance will allow counsel to "complete discussions with the U.S. Attorney's Office regarding resolving the matter short of trial." Rafael's new trial date is March 20.

A Bristol County Sheriff's Deputy who allegedly helped Rafael smuggle bulk cash through Logan International Airport has also had his trial date pushed back to May 15.