Carel Pedre released from ICE custody after two months

Haitian cultural journalist and media influencer Carel Pedre was released Feb. 27 from U.S. immigration custody, ending more than two months of detention that drew alarm across Haiti and the diaspora.

The announcement was confirmed by his media company, Chokarella, which said Pedre is “no longer in the custody of” U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and has been reunited with his family following his detention at the Krome Detention Center.

Pedre had remained in immigration detention even after Florida prosecutors declined in late January to pursue domestic battery charges tied to his Dec. 21 arrest in Tamarac, Broward County. Court records showed the domestic violence case was dropped after the alleged victim requested no prosecution and disputed key elements of the police report.

Despite the dismissal of the criminal case — and the return of a $1,000 bond he had posted — immigration authorities maintained custody under an immigration detainer reportedly linked to questions surrounding his legal status in the United States, including a possible visa overstay and a questionable diplomatic status.

Background of the arrest

Pedre was first arrested on Dec. 21 in Broward County on a domestic battery allegation following what police described as a dispute at a residence in Tamarac. Authorities booked him into the Broward County jail, where records showed both the battery allegation and an immigration hold placed shortly after his arrest. 

In the days that followed, Pedre’s detention quickly became a major topic among Haitians. Supporters across the diaspora closely followed court developments as he was later transferred to federal immigration custody even after the state criminal case weakened. 

Company shares gratitude

In its statement on Friday, Chokarella thanked supporters while asking for privacy as Pedre reunites with relatives and focuses on recovery after weeks in detention.

Pedre has not yet issued a personal public statement since his release.

His arrest had prompted widespread reaction among Haitian media professionals, artists and community leaders, many of whom raised concerns about due process after criminal charges were dropped but immigration detention continued.

It remains unclear what immigration proceedings, if any, may continue following his release.

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