Federal immigration authorities have detained Pierre Réginald Boulos, a former presidential candidate in Haiti and lawful permanent U.S. resident, citing alleged connections to violent gangs and immigration fraud.
In a statement released to the media, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said Boulos was arrested on July 17 by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents. He is accused of supporting Haitian gang activity and failing to disclose his political and financial dealings in Haiti.
According to ICE, Boulos’ actions contributed to instability in the Caribbean nation and posed potential risks to U.S. foreign policy interests.
“The Department of State has determined that certain individuals with U.S. lawful permanent resident status have supported and collaborated with Haitian gang leaders connected to Viv Ansanm, a Haitian foreign terrorist organization,” ICE said in a press release.
Accusations of Immigration Fraud
Federal officials also allege that Boulos did not disclose his role in founding a Haitian political party known as MTVAyiti (Mouvement pour la Transformation et la Valorisation d’Haiti). Additionally, he has been referred by Haiti’s anti-corruption unit for allegedly misusing loan funds—details that ICE says could constitute immigration fraud under U.S. law.
Authorities claim that omissions of this nature violate the Immigration and Nationality Act and may result in revocation of permanent residency and deportation.
Boulos, a well-known businessman and physician, has long been a prominent figure in Haitian politics. His arrest has drawn international attention due to his political past and public standing.
Detention and Next Steps
ICE confirmed that Boulos is being held at its Enforcement and Removal Operations facility in Miami, Florida, as legal proceedings begin. No trial date has been announced.
“These actions demonstrate the Trump administration’s strong stance on national security and commitment to holding accountable those who support destabilizing forces abroad,” ICE added.
The arrest marks one of the highest-profile immigration enforcement actions under the current administration, signaling a tougher approach to foreign nationals linked to international criminal networks.
