US Charges Haitian Gang Leader, Barbecue, Amid Escalating Crisis

The indictment highlights Cherizier's alleged human rights abuses and the critical security situation in Haiti.

In a significant legal move, US federal prosecutors have filed criminal charges against Jimmy Cherizier, infamously known as "Barbecue," the leader of a prominent alliance of gangs dominating the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince. The indictment accuses Cherizier, along with US citizen Bazile Richardson, 48, of soliciting financial support from the Haitian diaspora in the United States to sustain gang operations and purchase firearms, circumventing US sanctions.

Cherizier, a former police officer who currently remains a fugitive in Haiti, leads the organization Viv Ansanm (Live Together). The United States is offering a hefty reward of $5 million for information leading to his capture. US Attorney Jeanine Pirro highlighted the severity of Cherizier's actions during a news conference, stating, “He's a gang leader responsible for heinous human rights abuses, including violence against American citizens in Haiti.”

The charges specify Cherizier's alleged involvement in significant atrocities, including the 2018 La Saline massacre, which resulted in the deaths of 71 individuals, extensive property destruction, and multiple sexual assaults. Richardson, who was arrested last month in Texas, is described as a naturalized US citizen with roots in Haiti. He reportedly assisted in gathering funds used to support gang activities and procure weapons.

Both individuals are accused of financing Cherizier's extensive criminal operation, which has exacerbated the ongoing security disaster in Haiti, as noted by Assistant US Attorney General John Eisenberg. He affirmed the US's commitment to pursuing individuals who perpetuate instability and violence in the nation.

In May, American officials classified Viv Ansanm as a foreign terrorist organization, laying bare the severity of its influence since gaining control of the capital in 2020. Earlier this year, the group attempted to transition into a political force. Internationally, Cherizier's actions have also prompted sanctions from the United Nations, Canada, and the UK.

Arresting Cherizier could lead to extradition to the US; however, his position within the gang protection network remains formidable. The Haitian landscape has been fraught with turmoil since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, deepening the nation’s crisis marked by economic hardship, political instability, and rampant gang violence.

The situation in Port-au-Prince has deteriorated significantly, leading to a complete breakdown of law and order and a severe healthcare collapse, contributing to a dire food security crisis. Recent UN reports indicate that over 5.7 million people, which constitutes more than half of Haiti's population, are currently experiencing acute food insecurity and the displacement of over one million citizens continues to rise.

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