On Tuesday, Former Haitian senator sentenced to life for Jovenel Moïse murder 

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer 

#Haiti, December 21, 2023 – Another breakthrough in the assassination plot of the Haitian president in July 2021; former Haitian Senator John Joel Joseph was on Tuesday sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the murder of Jovenel Moïse.

Joseph’s sentencing took place in a Miami court.

In October, the former politician became the third of 11 defendants who pleaded guilty of killing Jovenel Moïse, among which were Colombian mercenaries accused of carrying out the murder as well as foreign businessmen suspected of funding the assassination plot.

Reports say his proffer statement indicates that he was present at meetings which went up to the night before Moïse’s murder,  for the discussion of plans for the assassination.

Joseph reportedly admitted to providing support for the murder plot, which includes rental vehicles, and introduction to gangs for help.

Others who pleaded guilty include a Chilean-Haitian man and a retired Colombian army officer who were already sentenced to life.

Also, a former U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration informer earlier this month, accused of helping make the mission look like a U.S. government operation, also pleaded guilty and is expected to be sentenced early 2024.

Another who pleaded innocent last year, Mario Palacios, ex-Colombian soldier, is expected to change his plea this Friday, December 22nd, 2023, reports say.