FBI Arrests Man in Connection with Drug Trafficking in Brattleboro

In April 2026 authorities documented two controlled drug transactions with an informant's assistance.

Authorities have arrested a Vermont resident under the alias “SHIZAAM” for allegedly managing a significant cocaine and crack cocaine distribution network that spanned from Brattleboro to White River Junction. The arrest followed an FBI affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Burlington on May 12, outlining the operations of Joshua Bedard, who reportedly distributed illegal drugs across Vermont while armed.

The investigation commenced in 2025 through a collaborative effort between the FBI and the Vermont Drug Task Force, initially aimed at addressing fentanyl and crack cocaine sales in Brattleboro. While authorities originally targeted a different suspect, they later identified Bedard as a key supplier linked to the illicit activities.

According to the affidavit sworn by FBI Special Agent Colin Simons, a confidential informant played a crucial role in identifying Bedard. This informant claimed to have conducted drug deliveries for Bedard and witnessed him discussing drug pricing and sales while using various cell phones. 

In April 2026, authorities documented two controlled drug transactions with the informant's assistance. The first transaction took place at the Travelodge on Putney Road, where the informant purchased crack cocaine. During this interaction, another person allegedly finalized the deal while referencing a debt owed to Bedard. Law enforcement observed drug use in the motel room, and subsequent tests confirmed the presence of cocaine base.

The second purchase occurred later that same month in Guilford, where it is alleged that the informant acquired over 30 grams of crack cocaine and nearly 26 grams of powder cocaine directly from Bedard. Reports indicate that Bedard was visibly armed during this transaction, with video evidence capturing the firearm.

On May 11, federal agents arrested Bedard in Brattleboro, seizing approximately 400 grams of suspected cocaine and a revolver containing both spent and live ammunition from his rental vehicle. Alongside Bedard, authorities also detained Koree S. Hudgins, a passenger with an outstanding warrant.

After his arrest, Bedard reportedly waived his rights and confessed to selling narcotics after his release from jail in 2025. He allegedly disclosed that his operations had scaled to distributing as much as 1 kilogram of cocaine and crack cocaine combined daily in the preceding month. When asked about the firearm, Bedard reportedly indicated that he carried it for protection, likening his situation to that of law enforcement.

Bedard is facing federal charges related to cocaine distribution and illegal possession of a firearm in connection with drug trafficking.