Convicted murderer who escaped prison in haiti arrested by ice in massachusetts

Convicted murderer who escaped prison in Haiti arrested by ICE in Massachusetts

BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Wilbert Jean-Baptiste, a 38-year-old convicted murderer who escaped from a Haitian prison, on Feb. 4.

Jean-Baptiste illegally entered the U.S. near Brownsville, Texas, on Oct. 31, 2023, and was detained by U.S. Border Patrol. He was later released with a notice to appear before an immigration judge. On May 17, 2024, the judge ordered his removal to Haiti, but Jean-Baptiste remained in the U.S. due to ongoing immigration proceedings.

ICE received notification from the Haitian government on Feb. 3 that Jean-Baptiste was wanted for homicide and had escaped from prison. He was arrested the following day in Massachusetts.

“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.

Jean-Baptiste is currently in ICE custody awaiting deportation to Haiti.

ICE’s arrest highlights the ongoing effort to detain fugitives who attempt to evade justice across international borders.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

Stilton is committed to factual reporting, source verification, transparency, and providing readers with accessible, accurate information that helps them better understand the issues shaping their communities. Through Shore News Network, he continues to focus on delivering trusted news coverage and original reporting to audiences across New Jersey and beyond.

For story tips, corrections, or media inquiries, readers can contact Shore News Network through its official website and social media channels.