Washington, D.C.(WDNews) – U.S. officials are taking action against individuals with legal status in the country who are accused of supporting a violent Haitian gang network, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
In a statement Friday, Rubio said the U.S. Department of State has identified certain lawful permanent residents believed to be aiding leaders of Viv Ansanm, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization responsible for widespread violence and unrest in Haiti.
“The latest U.S. actions [target] individuals whose presence and activities in our country have potentially serious adverse foreign policy consequences for the United States,” Rubio said.
He added, “The United States will not allow individuals to enjoy the benefits of legal status in our country while they are facilitating the actions of violent organizations or supporting criminal terrorist organizations.”
The designation allows the Department of Homeland Security to begin removal proceedings under section 237(a)(4)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
“These new actions demonstrate the Trump Administration’s firm commitment to protecting the American people, advancing our national security interests, and promoting regional security and stability,” Rubio said.
