Haitian politician, former coup leader seeks immunity from US case
Published:Friday | March 3, 2017 | 12:00 AM
MIAMI (AP):
A former Haitian coup leader who was recently elected to that country's Senate is seeking immunity from US prosecution in a drug case.
Court documents recently filed by Guy Philippe's attorney contend he cannot be prosecuted because he's a foreign state official due to his November 20 election to the Haitian Senate.
Philippe was arrested four days before he was to officially take office on January 9.
IN PHOTO: Guy Philippe
The filing says Philippe should be immune from the US charges for his six-year Senate term.
US prosecutors say Philippe cannot use the political immunity defense.
Philippe has pleaded not guilty to drug smuggling and money laundering conspiracy charges that carry a maximum life prison sentence. Trial is set for April 3.
Philippe led a 2004 uprising that ousted then-President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.