ICE apprehends fugitive alien wanted for homicide following prison escape in Haiti

BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Wilbert Jean-Baptiste, a 38-year-old convicted murderer wanted in Haiti following a prison escape, Feb. 4.

Jean-Baptiste was initially apprehended by the U.S. Border Patrol on Oct. 31, 2023, after illegally entering the United States near Brownsville, Texas. He subsequently was released with a notice to appear before an immigration judge with the Justice Department’s Executive Office of Immigration Review. The judge issued an order for his removal to Haiti on May 17, 2024. However, Jean-Baptiste remained in the U.S., pending additional immigration proceedings.

ICE was notified by the Haitian government on Feb. 3, that Jean-Baptiste was wanted for homicide and had escaped from a Haitian prison and arrested him in Massachusetts 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,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia Hyde. “Through ongoing collaboration with our international law enforcement partners, ICE proves that no criminal will escape accountability.”

Jean-Baptiste remains in ICE custody pending his removal to Haiti.

Members of the public can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston.