Haiti Papa Jere

A Duvalier crony stands trial

Despite the sweltering heat, curious crowds of reporters packed the pink courtroom in Port-au-Prince day after day. Armed soldiers in steel helmets surrounded the defendant, who sat erect, dressed in a business suit, seemingly impervious to both the temperature and the allegations against him. Retired Army Colonel Samuel Jeremie, 52, who was once a close aide to former President-for-Life Jean-Claude ("Baby Doc") Duvalier, had been charged with two counts of murder, each punishable by ten years in prison. He was also accused of military misconduct, a crime under Haitian law that could lead to an additional 15-year sentence.

Haiti's ruling National...

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