BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Wilbert Jean-Baptiste, a 38-year-old convicted murderer who escaped from a Haitian prison, on Feb. 4.
Jean-Baptiste illegally entered the U.S. near Brownsville, Texas, on Oct. 31, 2023, and was detained by U.S. Border Patrol. He was later released with a notice to appear before an immigration judge. On May 17, 2024, the judge ordered his removal to Haiti, but Jean-Baptiste remained in the U.S. due to ongoing immigration proceedings.
ICE received notification from the Haitian government on Feb. 3 that Jean-Baptiste was wanted for homicide and had escaped from prison. He was arrested the following day in Massachusetts.
“This apprehension demonstrates ICE’s relentless commitment to pursuing fugitives and ensuring they face justice, no matter where they attempt to hide,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde.
Jean-Baptiste is currently in ICE custody awaiting deportation to Haiti.
ICE’s arrest highlights the ongoing effort to detain fugitives who attempt to evade justice across international borders.