18 Suspects in Jovenel Moïse Assassination Await Extradition to the U.S.

Eighteen individuals connected to the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021 are set to be extradited to the United States. This transition marks the conclusion of an extended judicial process in Haiti, following the shocking event that rattled the nation.

According to Reding Quiñones, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, these suspects will face trial in Florida. Quiñones stated, “Today marks the next major phase in our pursuit of accountability for the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.” He emphasized the commitment to trace every lead, including those who funded, facilitated, or engaged in criminal acts related to the assassination.

While Quiñones did not disclose the identities of the suspects, the group in Haiti includes over a dozen Colombian ex-soldiers and a former Haitian government official. Historic imagery shows Colombian men, considered suspects, in handcuffs during a 2025 hearing at the Court of Appeals in Port-au-Prince.

“We will follow the evidence wherever it leads, to those who financed it, facilitated it, supported it or committed crimes to make it possible.” — Reding Quiñones

The investigation has led to the indictment of 30 individuals, with FBI Special Agent Brett Skiles highlighting numerous arrests both domestically and internationally. Skiles reiterated the FBI’s determination to hold accountable those who allegedly benefited from the assassination of a state leader.

Recent activities in the case continue, with the U.S. prosecuting various suspects. In May, Florida’s jury convicted four men, while five others accepted guilt and received life sentences. The convicts include Arcángel Pretel Ortiz, Antonio Intriago, Walter Veintemilla, and James Solages. Despite pleading not guilty, evidence proved their significant roles in planning the assassination.

Martine Moïse, widow of the late president, suffered injuries during the attack. She gave graphic testimony in a Miami federal court in March, emotionally recounting the attack in their bedroom. Furthermore, Martine Moïse accused former Haitian leaders Michel Martelly and Ariel Henry of involvement in her husband’s demise. In 2024, charges of complicity and criminal association were brought against her, which her lawyer criticized as “ridiculous and unjust.”