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 and been held on $2 million bail.
Carlos Rafael, of Dartmouth, appeared in federal court in Worcester on Thursday to face 27 counts. He had been free on $1 million bail since his February arrest.
Rafael is the owner of one of a large commercial fishing operation, with more than 30 vessels in his fleet, 44 commercial fishing permits and the Carlos Seafood business in New Bedford.
The Standard-Times 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.
