Jean-François Malo, a fugitive wanted for orchestrating an attack on a lawyer in 2020, has been apprehended in Martinique. His arrest follows a three-month manhunt after he escaped Canada. Malo was deemed one of Quebec’s most wanted criminals during his time on the run.
Details of the Arrest
Malo was taken into custody upon his arrival at the airport in Martinique, a French overseas department in the Caribbean. The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) confirmed the arrest but stated that they could not comment further.
Background of the Case
- Crime Details: In October 2022, Malo was sentenced to five years in prison for orchestrating the attack.
- Victim: Nicholas Daudelin, a lawyer who was later appointed as a judge in Quebec, was the target of the attack.
- Nature of the Attack: On March 26, 2020, two henchmen shot Daudelin, injuring him in the leg.
Flight from Justice
Malo fled while awaiting sentencing and sent two emails to Judge Denys Noël, expressing fear for his life. He described feeling “broken” and “fatigued” and sought help, claiming he was under threat from the Hells Angels.
Concerns of Extortion
In his correspondence, Malo alleged that gang members attempted to extort $4 million from him and previously set his luxury Maserati on fire as a warning. He argued that without payment, his life would be in grave danger.
- Recent Developments: The Crown is appealing Malo’s five-year sentence, seeking a harsher penalty of 10 to 12 years.
- Arguments: The appeal highlights the severity of targeting a legal officer and emphasizes Malo’s lack of remorse.
Conclusion
With his arrest in Martinique, legal proceedings regarding Malo’s extradition to Canada are expected. This manhunt has drawn significant media attention, highlighting issues of organized crime and justice in Quebec.
