FILE PHOTO: Former police officer Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherizier, leader of the 'G9' gang alliance, is flanked by gang members after a press conference in Delmas 6, Port-au-Prince, Haiti March 5, 2024. REUTERS/Ralph Tedy Erol/File Photo
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, along with officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and state authorities, announced the indictment of prominent Haitian gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Cherizier on August 12, 2023. During a briefing held at 14:00 ET, Pirro detailed the charges against Cherizier for allegedly conspiring to violate U.S. sanctions and for orchestrating violent gang activities.
This indictment highlights the continuing struggle against organized crime in Haiti, where Cherizier has gained notoriety as the head of one of the country’s most powerful gangs. The U.S. government has increasingly focused on tackling drug trafficking and gang violence that extends beyond Haiti’s borders, impacting both the local population and international communities.
Details of the Indictment
The indictment accuses Cherizier of leading a criminal organization that has been responsible for significant violence and instability in Haiti. According to the indictment, he has used his influence to control drug trafficking routes and manipulate local power dynamics. The U.S. Department of Justice alleges that Cherizier’s actions have not only violated U.S. laws but have also exacerbated humanitarian crises in his home country.
U.S. Attorney Pirro emphasized the importance of international cooperation in combatting such crimes. “We are committed to holding accountable those whose actions contribute to violence and suffering, both in the United States and abroad,” she stated during the briefing. The indictment serves as a clear signal of the U.S. government’s resolve to address the consequences of gang violence that often spills over into American society.
Impact on Haiti and International Relations
The indictment could have far-reaching effects on U.S.-Haiti relations and highlight the need for more comprehensive strategies to deal with the ongoing crisis in Haiti. With gangs controlling large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, the situation has deteriorated, leading to increased displacement and violence against civilians.
Experts suggest that the U.S. government’s actions may encourage other nations to take similar steps against criminal organizations that operate internationally. By focusing on high-profile figures like Cherizier, the U.S. aims to disrupt the networks that facilitate drug trafficking and violence.
As the situation develops, it remains crucial for both U.S. and Haitian authorities to work collaboratively on solutions that prioritize stability, security, and humanitarian aid for those affected by gang violence. The indictment of Jimmy Cherizier marks a significant step in this ongoing effort.
