U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended Wilbert Jean-Baptiste, a 38-year-old convicted murderer wanted in Haiti following his escape from prison. The arrest took place on February 4 in Massachusetts.
Jean-Baptiste was initially detained by the U.S. Border Patrol on October 31, 2023, after illegally entering the United States near Brownsville, Texas. He was released with a notice to appear before an immigration judge from the Justice Department’s Executive Office of Immigration Review. On May 17, 2024, the judge ordered his removal to Haiti; however, Jean-Baptiste remained in the U.S., awaiting further immigration proceedings.
On February 3, ICE received notification from the Haitian government that Jean-Baptiste was wanted for homicide and had escaped from a Haitian prison. This led to his arrest the following day.
“This apprehension demonstrates ICE’s relentless commitment to pursuing fugitives and ensuring they face justice, no matter where they attempt to hide,” stated Patricia Hyde, acting Field Office Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations. “Through ongoing collaboration with our international law enforcement partners, ICE proves that no criminal will escape accountability.”
Jean-Baptiste is currently held in ICE custody pending his deportation to Haiti.
The public is encouraged to report crimes or suspicious activities by contacting the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or through their online tip form.
Further information about ICE's mission can be found on X: @EROBoston.
