10 Things to Know About Markenzy Lapointe

News Americas, New York, NY, September 17, 2024: Haitian-born Markenzy Lapointe, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, is overseeing the case against Ryan Routh, who faces gun-related charges after a Secret Service agent spotted a firearm near the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach. At the time, former President Donald Trump was nearby. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Dispoto is leading the prosecution, according to court records.

Here are 10 things you need to know about Lapointe.

1: First Haitian-born U.S. Attorney
Lapointe made history as the first Haitian-born U.S. attorney and the first black attorney confirmed to serve as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida. He assumed this prestigious role in January 2023, after being appointed by President Joe Biden.

2: Leading the Prosecution in a high-profile case amid racist comments
Lapointe’s office is prosecuting Ryan Routh, the suspect in an alleged assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The case involves gun-related charges after a Secret Service agent spotted a firearm near Trump’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The high-profile case unfolds amid a backdrop of heightened tensions after Trump recently spread misinformation about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, leading to bomb threats and school evacuations in the area.

And while Donald Trump Jr. suggested that Haitian immigrants were less intelligent than people from other countries, and claimed that there was demographic evidence to support this. He gave none.

“You look at Haiti, you look at the demographic makeup, you look at the average IQ — if you import the third world into your country, you’re going to become the third world,” Mr. Trump said in an interview with Charlie. Kirk on Real America’s Voice, a conservative broadcast network. “It’s just basic. It’s not racist. It’s just a fact.”

3: Background in military service
Lapointe is a US Navy veteran of the Gulf War. His service in the Marine Corps helped shape his disciplined and focused approach, which he now applies to his legal career.

4: Early career in Florida
He began his legal career as a law clerk for the Florida Supreme Court. He later became an assistant U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Florida, handling narcotics, firearms and fraud cases.

5: Successful legal career in Miami
Prior to becoming U.S. Attorney, Lapointe was a partner at two prominent Miami law firms, where he worked on high-profile commercial, product liability and professional malpractice cases. He also co-chaired a committee that promotes diversity in the legal profession.

6: Known for Pro Bono Work
Lapointe has maintained a significant pro bono practice throughout his career. He has received awards for his efforts in child protection and family law, including the reunification of families affected by the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

7: Inspiration from humble beginnings
Lapointe immigrated from Haiti as a teenager and grew up in Miami’s Liberty City neighborhood. He shared a two-bedroom apartment with his mother, a street vendor and four siblings. His journey from those humble beginnings to US Attorney is a testament to his tenacity.

8: The Pioneer Role Model
As the first black American and Haitian-American prosecutor in his district, Lapointe is keenly aware of the importance of his position. He understands the responsibility to represent and inspire communities that have historically been underrepresented in the justice system.

9: Focus on justice in the Jovenel Moise case
Lapointe’s office is also handling cases related to the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moise. Despite his personal connection to Haiti, he stresses the importance of impartiality in the prosecution of the case.

10: Commitment to service
Lapointe credits his mother as his hero and remains committed to serving his country and community. His legal expertise and deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities he has fuel his commitment to justice.