One of Haiti’s richest men faces U.S. deportation on gang charges

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One of Haiti’s richest and most powerful men, and a permanent U.S. resident, is awaiting deportation after authorities accused him of collaborating with the Caribbean nation’s gangs.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement late Monday said it had arrested Pierre Reginald Boulos, a doctor, businessman and one-time presidential candidate, who was residing in the U.S.

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“Officials determined that he engaged in a campaign of violence and gang support that contributed to Haiti’s destabilization,” ICE said in a statement. “Additionally, in his application to become a lawful permanent resident, he failed to disclose his involvement in the formation of a political party in Haiti.”

Boulos was launching a presidential bid in 2021 when the murder of then-President Jovenel Moise shocked the country. While he was never formally charged with the crime, Moise’s widow and others said Boulos’ legal troubles and the government’s decision to freeze his bank accounts gave him motive.

Boulos always maintained his innocence and has largely lived in Florida since. Calls and text messages to phone numbers once used by Boulos were not immediately returned.

Boulos’ arrest could be part of a larger crackdown. On Monday, the U.S. Department of State said it had determined that some U.S. lawful permanent residents had been collaborating with the Viv Ansanm gang, which controls large swaths of the Haitian capital and has been driving violence.

“The United States will not allow individuals to enjoy the benefits of legal status in our country while they are facilitating the actions of violent organizations or supporting criminal terrorist organizations,” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement. “With this determination, the Department of Homeland Security can pursue the removal of these individuals.”