The release of a number of high profile accused criminals has been followed by a spike in crime, especially in the capital’s northern suburbs.
On April 17, the government stirred outrage when it released Woodly Ethéart alias Sonson Lafamilia and Renel Nelfort alias Renel le Récif, both of whom were accused of kidnapping at least 17 people and netting some $1.49 million in ransoms. Although the Justice Ministry feigned consternation, filed an appeal, and fired prosecutor Kherson Darius Charles after the irregular ruling, most Haitians believe that government authorities orchestrated the release of Ethéart, who is a long-time friend and business associate of President Michel Martelly.
The release comes after over 300 alleged bandits were freed at the end of 2014 under the pretext of a presidential pardon. Meanwhile, on Mar. 2, Justice Minister Pierre Richard Casimir announced “Operation Punch,” which aims to empty more prisoners from Haiti’s overcrowded prisons.
The releases, both those planned and done, seem to have spurred a crime wave. In the towns of Croix-des-Missions and Croix-des Bouquets north of Port-au-Prince, gunmen have carried out a series of attacks.
On the night of April 22, gunmen broke into the home of Francisque Denis, a merchant, whom they murdered. The assailants then raped a girl, stole money, and calmly left without any police intervention.
Then on the evening of April 25, thugs attacked at least two orphanages. They raped girls, beat up those running the orphanages, and stole several valuables.
People feel that even the police are afraid. When the police sometimes make arrests after a crime, the bandits are often released a few days later in front of everyone.
And sometimes, the police are the problem. On Apr. 26, following a traffic accident, a counter-ambush team (CAT) police officer named Mackenson Denis, assigned to the National Palace, threatened with death Dr. François Berthony, who was on duty at the Hospital of the State University of Haiti (HUEH), commonly called the General Hospital. After the accident, Officer Denis sought back-up to get into the hospital in search of the doctor. Policeman Evens Joseph, who was providing security at the hospital, was disarmed and assaulted.
