65-Year-Old Lobster Dealer Arrested Again for Extortion Charges

A 65-year-old lobster dealer, Eric David Thibault, has been arrested again in southwest Nova Scotia and faces fresh charges related to a $10,000 extortion case. Thibault, along with his son Zacharie David Thibault and another individual, allegedly organized threats and attempted to extort money from a former fisherman in the area.

According to RCMP Sgt. Jeff LeBlanc, Thibault is believed to be part of an organized crime family operating in the region, aiming to exploit the profitable lobster industry. The recent incident is part of a growing concern over arsons, threats, and intimidation in the area, some of which are linked to the lobster fishery. The RCMP have been working diligently to encourage witnesses to come forward and cooperate with the investigation.

Thibault and his co-accused appeared in provincial court in Digby, N.S., on Monday and are scheduled for another court appearance on Friday. The Crown is opposing their release, citing the seriousness of the charges.

Previous Charges

Thibault has a history of legal issues related to the lobster industry. In November, he and his son were charged with intimidation following an incident involving lobster dealer Geoffrey Jobert. Jobert had been receiving threats after sourcing lobster from licensed harvesters instead of facilities suspected of buying illegally caught lobster. Thibault was also charged with intimidation in December and witness intimidation in January.

Despite being a well-known figure in the community, Thibault has faced financial troubles in the past, including bankruptcy due to gambling and addiction issues. He is recognized by his initials, E.T., and has been involved in the lobster industry for many years.