New details have emerged in the double-murder trial of Janson Baker, revealing a complex web of drug trafficking and police intervention that preceded the 2019 deaths of Bernard and Rose-Marie Saulnier. Testimony provided this week outlined a massive law enforcement operation known as “J-Trilogy,” which targeted a regional drug syndicate just days before the elderly couple was killed.
The Fallout of Operation J-Trilogy
The investigation into the drug network began in early 2019, utilizing wiretaps, undercover surveillance, and tactical operations to track a group allegedly led by Jesse Logue. The operation reached its climax on August 28, 2019, when authorities executed simultaneous raids on five different properties across the province. These raids resulted in the seizure of firearms and significant quantities of crystal meth.
One of the targeted locations was a duplex in Moncton owned by Sylvio Saulnier, the son of the victims. Evidence presented in court suggested that the duplex served as a primary hub for drug distribution, featuring a fortified steel door and a system of timecards for individuals working at the site. While Sylvio Saulnier was not initially arrested during the raids, he was later charged; however, he passed away before he could stand trial.
A Deadly Case of Mistaken Target
The prosecution alleges that the drug network experienced a violent internal rift following the police raids. Members of the syndicate reportedly suspected Sylvio Saulnier of cooperating with investigators. Consequently, it is alleged that Janson Baker was directed by network associates to locate and eliminate Sylvio.
Tragically, on September 7, 2019—just ten days after the police raids—Bernard and Rose-Marie Saulnier were found dead in their Dieppe home. The Crown contends that Baker went to the residence looking for Sylvio but killed his parents instead. Witnesses have testified that Baker was allegedly compensated for the act with cocaine and a gold neck chain.
Forensic Evidence and Associate Links
The trial has also focused on a residence in Lake George where Baker had been staying prior to the homicides. Forensic investigators testified about items recovered from a fire pit at that location, including jewelry and a partially burned license plate linked to a silver sedan. While a witness previously claimed Baker used a torch to melt the murder weapon in the basement of the home, investigators noted during cross-examination that no scorch marks were found on the concrete floor to verify that specific detail.
Additional testimony touched on the disappearance of Brady Sherman-Tompkins, an associate of the drug group who worked at the Moncton duplex. Sherman-Tompkins went missing shortly after the Saulniers were killed; his disappearance was later classified as a homicide and remains unsolved.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Janson Baker faces two counts of first-degree murder and has pleaded not guilty. The trial continues to examine the intersection of organized crime and the events leading to the deaths of the Dieppe couple, with more testimony expected regarding surveillance footage and forensic fingerprints found in vehicles linked to the accused.
