El Paso Standard

A federal jury in Boston convicted Jean Morose Viliena, the former mayor of Les Irois, Haiti, of visa fraud on March 28. Viliena, 52, was found guilty of three counts of visa fraud for obtaining a U.S. permanent resident card through false statements. The sentencing is set for June 20, 2025.

An investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) revealed that Viliena hid his involvement in extrajudicial and political killings in Haiti. Special Agent Michael J. Krol from ICE Homeland Security Investigations, New England, stated, "Viliena knowingly lied to conceal his violent past, deceiving immigration authorities to come to the United States."

According to United States Attorney Leah B. Foley, "The political corruption and violence that the people of Haiti endured at the direction of Jean Morose Viliena is appalling." She emphasized that fleeing from crimes and deceiving federal officials "will catch up to you."

Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, stated, "Today, a jury found that Jean Morose Viliena lied his way into gaining entrance into the United States after committing unspeakable acts of violence in Haiti." He acknowledged the contributions of victims and witnesses in holding Viliena accountable.

CBP's Jennifer De La O remarked on the privileges and responsibilities associated with emigration, noting, "If you conceal your criminal conduct to deceive your way into this country, you will ultimately be detected, held accountable, and brought to justice."

Viliena served as the mayor of Les Irois, Haiti, from December 2006 until at least February 2010. Court documents detail his involvement in violence, including incidents in 2007 and 2008. Viliena applied for a U.S. visa in June 2008, falsely denying involvement in crimes, before entering the United States with lawful permanent residence status.

If convicted of visa fraud, Viliena faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

The investigation involved ICE HSI New England, CBP New England, and other federal agencies. Reporting criminal activity to ICE is possible through their Tip Line and online form.