A US federal immigration judge in Miami has ordered that Pierre Réginald Boulos, a prominent Haitian businessman and former presidential hopeful, remains in custody. This decision, made during a closed hearing at the Krome North Service Processing Center, comes amid serious accusations against Boulos for supporting violent gangs in Haiti, which has contributed to the country’s ongoing destabilization.
Boulos, who was arrested at his South Florida home in July, has been accused by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of being involved in a campaign that fosters violence and gang support in Haiti. His arrest marks him as one of the most high-profile Haitian figures linked to the immigration policies implemented during President Donald Trump’s administration.
Details from the confidential hearing are sparse, as authorities restricted access to journalists and the public. Furthermore, the judge denied Boulos’ request for release, according to a source familiar with the proceedings who spoke anonymously to The Associated Press.
The family of Boulos issued a statement emphasizing that he is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. They noted that he left Haiti in 2021 after dedicating many years as a physician, humanitarian, and entrepreneur, underlining their commitment to address the allegations through legal channels.
Outside the detention center, a group of more than a dozen supporters gathered to rally for Boulos, expressing their fears regarding his potential deportation to Haiti. Holding signs advocating for his safety, the demonstrators conveyed a strong sentiment that should he return to Haiti, he would not be safe. One sign read, ‘If Boulos goes to Haiti, he will not stay in prison. The justice in Haiti are gangs.’
Others suggested alternative locations for Boulos, advocating for him to be sent either to El Salvador or Guantánamo. The broad public interest in the case reflects deeper concerns regarding the safety of individuals facing similar perilous situations in Haiti.
ICE has not elaborated publicly on the specifics of Boulos’s case; however, they raised issues surrounding his residency application. Following his arrest, they stated Boulos failed to mention his involvement in the formation of a political party and that he was referred for prosecution by Haiti’s government concerning the misuse of loans. This situation resonates with U.S. officials’ broader concerns regarding individuals with lawful permanent resident status allegedly collaborating with gang leaders connected to the terrorist group Viv Ansanm.
The recent statement from ICE underscores the government’s resolve to ensure that individuals cannot benefit from legal status in the U.S. while facilitating the activities of violent organizations abroad. There remains uncertainty on the legal front as Boulos’ attorney has yet to issue any comments on the situation.
Boulos built a diverse business portfolio in Haiti, operating grocery stores and car dealerships. He also took on leadership roles such as president of the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, though he has faced corruption allegations in the past.
In 2019, Boulos founded the Third Way Movement, a political party intended to challenge what he described as the corrupt elite and politicians worsening the plight of the Haitian people. Though he renounced his U.S. citizenship with aspirations of running for president—a bid that did not come to fruition—he secured lawful residency in the U.S. last year during the Biden administration.
As Boulos awaits the next steps in his legal proceedings, both his family and his supporters remain vocal and adamant about his situation, advocating for justice and transparency against a backdrop of political unrest in Haiti.
image source from：wsvn
