U.S. Sanctions Ex-Haitian Security Chief and Gang Leader

The U.S. Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on two individuals linked to gang violence in Haiti. The sanctions target Dimitri Herard, the former head of presidential security during the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, and Kempes Sanon, the leader of the Bel Air gang. These actions come as part of a broader effort to combat a coalition of gangs known as Viv Ansanm, which the U.S. designated as a foreign terrorist organization earlier this year.

Herard, a former police officer, was previously incarcerated for his involvement in the assassination of Moïse in July 2021. Following his escape from prison in early 2024, the U.S. Treasury stated that he has been actively collaborating with Viv Ansanm. According to the Treasury, Herard has provided “training and firearms” to gang leaders and has played a direct role in coordinating attacks against state institutions across Haiti.

Sanon, who leads the Bel Air gang, is accused of contributing to the gang coalition’s consolidation of power. The U.S. Treasury described his actions as including “indiscriminate civilian killings, extortion, illicit taxation, and kidnappings.” The sanctions against both men aim to freeze their assets within the United States and prohibit any business transactions involving them.

In a statement regarding the sanctions, Bradley T. Smith, director of the Office of Foreign Assets Control, emphasized the importance of targeting leaders like Herard and Sanon. He noted that their activities significantly enable the violence and chaos perpetuated by Viv Ansanm in Haiti.

Gang violence has become pervasive in Haiti since the assassination of Moïse, leading to a deteriorating security situation and widespread fear among civilians. The international community has struggled to devise effective responses to the escalating crisis. The recent sanctions are part of an ongoing effort to disrupt the operations of gangs and restore order to the Caribbean nation.

As violence continues to plague Haiti, officials stress that decisive actions against gang leaders are essential to restoring stability and protecting civilian lives.