'Baby Doc' Duvalier charged with corruption in Haiti

[Joanne98]

Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier was charged with corruption, theft, misappropriation of funds and other alleged crimes committed during his 1971-1986 rule after the former Haitian dictator was hauled before a judge in Port-au Prince tonight.

"His fate is now in the hands of the investigating judge. We have brought charges against him," Port-au-Prince chief prosecutor, Aristidas Auguste, told Reuters.

The charges must now be investigated by the judge who will decide whether a judicial case should go ahead.

Dozens of officers, including some in riot gear, had whisked him earlier from his hotel past a jeering and cheering crowd and into a 4X4 with tinted windows – a scene which his regime's victims had long dreamed of. The 59-year-old, who was not handcuffed, appeared calm and did not say anything. He had been due to give a press conference to explain his return from 25 years in exile.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/jan/18/haiti-baby-doc-duvalier-court

[Bonhomme Richard]

1. There is going to be a coup. Bet the house on it.

He wouldn't have come back without all the pieces in place and no one is that stupid.

[HillbillyBob]

2. He may be or have been overconfident too

I hope you are wrong. Don't take that the wrong way, poor Haiti and her people have been through so much.

[Bonhomme Richard]

3. That country is ripe for anyone that comes in promising order.

Most people there were not even born when he left and when I watched Frontline the head of police gave me the impression that he would support a dictator. He was not happy with the government.