Project Badminton results in four arrests

The RCMP and RNC have concluded Project Badminton. After 30 months, four individuals based in the St. John’s metro area have been arrested. The investigation focused on drug and human trafficking.

Dominic Delisle of St. John’s has been charged with Conspiracy to Traffic in Cocaine and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine. Delisle is also facing multiple criminal human trafficking and firearms charges, which were laid in 2022 as a result of Project Badminton.

Erik Mello of Torbay faces charges of Conspiracy to Traffic in Cocaine and Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine. Mello is also facing multiple firearms charges, which were laid in 2022 as a result of Project Badminton.

Richard Noftall of Portugal Cove-St. Phillips is charged with Conspiracy to Traffic in Cocaine, two counts of Trafficking in Cocaine, and Conspiracy to Traffic in Fentanyl.

Travis Thorne of St. John’s is facing charges of Conspiracy to Traffic in Cocaine, Conspiracy to Traffic in Fentanyl, two counts of Trafficking in Cocaine, two counts of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Cocaine, Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Fentanyl, Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Hydromorphone, Possession of Cannabis for Unauthorized Distribution, and Possession of the Proceeds of Crime.

Project Badminton resulted in the seizure of thousands of drugs, cash, and weapons.

All four individuals are scheduled to appear in St. John’s Provincial Court on August 24, 2023.