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The Port-au-Prince Court of Appeal has ordered the appearance of Dimitry Hérard and Jean Laguel Civil, former security officials for assassinated President Jovenel Moïse, in connection with the ongoing investigation into his murder. The hearing is scheduled for January 27, 2025.
Both Hérard and Civil, who were incarcerated at the National Penitentiary, escaped during an armed gang attack on the facility in March 2024. Despite being on the run, their lawyers, Max Standley Lafortune and Reynold Georges, represented them during a recent court session on Monday. Prosecutors, however, argued that their legal representatives should not be heard in the absence of the accused.
Following the prosecution’s request, the presiding judge ruled that both Hérard and Civil must appear in person next week. Their absence could have significant legal implications for the case.
The investigation also involves several other individuals, including Colombian nationals and key suspect Joseph Félix Badio. The escape of Hérard and Civil, both crucial figures in the security apparatus at the time of the assassination, has added complexity to the probe.
Authorities continue to search for the fugitives, with a warrant issued for Hérard in May 2024. As of now, their whereabouts remain unknown.
