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The Biden administration imposed sanctions on former Haitian President Michel Martelly for his involvement in drug trafficking and sponsorship of gangs in Haiti.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Michel Martelly, known by his stage name “Sweet Micky,” served as Haiti’s President from May 2011 to February 2016. His administration faced accusations of embezzling public funds and collaborating with criminal gangs, which weakened Haiti and ultimately led to their rise.

What the US government did: The US government has sanctioned former Haitian President Michel Martelly for his alleged role in global drug trafficking, particularly facilitating the flow of cocaine to the United States. According to the DOJ, Martelly is accused of leveraging his political influence to support drug networks, launder illicit funds, and sponsor gangs that fuel Haiti’s violence and instability.

What the US government is saying: In a statement, Acting Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Bradley T. Smith said, “Today’s action against Martelly emphasizes the significant and destabilizing role he and other corrupt political elites have played in perpetuating the ongoing crisis in Haiti. The United States, along with our international partners, is committed to disrupting those who facilitate the drug trafficking, corruption, and other illicit activities fueling the horrific gang violence and political instability.”