Jean Morose Viliena, former mayor of Les Irois, Haiti, has been found guilty by a jury for immigration crimes due to fraudulent claims related to his past in Haiti. Viliena falsely claimed he had not participated in violent acts, securing a Permanent Resident Card in the United States.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, remarked, "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 praised the victims and witnesses for aiding in exposing Viliena’s past.
U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley from the District of Massachusetts highlighted the significance of the conviction, stating, "The United States is not where you come to hide from your crimes. Today’s conviction is proof that running away from your crimes and lying to federal officials will catch up to you."
Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England, emphasized, "Viliena has now faced the consequences of lying to come to live in Massachusetts." Krol confirmed HSI's commitment to barring human rights violators from seeking refuge in the U.S.
During Viliena's tenure as mayor from December 2006 to at least February 2010, he allegedly backed a political machine, Korega, which imposed control through force in Haiti. Incidents linked to Viliena include violent reprisals against community members and a brutal attack on a local radio station in April 2008. Testimonies revealed Viliena’s role in coordinating and executing these attacks.
Viliena successfully applied for an immigrant visa in 2008 while deceiving U.S. immigration officials about his activities. This duplicity enabled him to receive lawful permanent resident status and a Green Card, which he used multiple times.
Viliena's sentencing is scheduled for June 20, with potential penalties including up to ten years in prison and a significant fine.
The investigation was spearheaded by the HSI Boston Field Office and coordinated by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center (HRVWCC). Further prosecutorial efforts were made by Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion and Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura J. Kaplan, alongside HRSP Historian/Analyst Dr. Christopher Hayden.
The public is encouraged to report human rights violators in the U.S. through the HSI tip line or its online platform.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, aimed at curbing illegal immigration and dismantling transnational criminal organizations.