A stark warning for Haitian truckers — stay vigilant, stay legal, or risk losing everything
By the Haitian Pulse Editorial Team | June 16, 2025
Over the last five years, the number of Haitians entering the trucking industry has surged dramatically. While this growth reflects the community’s drive for economic opportunity, it also comes with serious risks—especially for those who do not hold the proper Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). For anyone operating without a valid license, the advice is clear: do not take shortcuts. Driving without a legitimate CDL puts you at risk of severe legal consequences, including heavy fines, criminal charges, deportation, and permanent damage to your future in this industry. The safest and smartest path is to obtain your CDL through authorized training programs and official DMV testing centers. Your career and freedom depend on it.
The American trucking industry has long been a pathway to economic stability for Haitians seeking a better future. But on June 12, 2025, that path was shaken by a massive fraud scandal uncovered in Florida — one that threatens the livelihoods of honest drivers nationwide.
Eight individuals—including two DMV employees—were arrested for illegally issuing over 1,000 Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) without requiring proper training, testing, or background checks. This unprecedented breach of trust endangers public safety and puts the futures of many Haitian truckers at risk.
Corruption at the Heart of the CDL Boom
The investigation revealed a brazen conspiracy involving two DMV employees: Bancelie Velazco (37) and Demetrius Smith II (30). Alongside six other individuals connected to a document-processing agency, they sold legitimate CDL licenses in exchange for cash payments totaling $120,000.
“This is not just fraud—it’s a threat to public safety and the integrity of the trucking industry,” said Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford.
“We will relentlessly pursue those who break the law and put lives in danger.”
This corrupt scheme allowed unqualified, undocumented drivers to flood the highways, jeopardizing safety and damaging the reputation of hardworking truckers.
What Haitian Truckers Need to Know — Your Career and Freedom Are on the Line
This is more than a Florida problem — it’s a national crisis demanding urgent attention from Haitian drivers and communities:
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No shortcuts, no exceptions.
Obtain your CDL only through certified schools and authorized DMV testing centers. Anything else is a ticking time bomb that can lead to deportation, criminal charges, and license revocation. -
Always verify your documents.
Confirm your license is legally issued and your personal information matches exactly. Avoid recruiters offering easy licenses or guaranteed jobs. -
Keep all your records safe.
Your test scores, training certificates, and employment contracts are your best defense during audits and inspections. -
Know the law.
Understand Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and state requirements. Ignorance will not protect you under increased scrutiny. -
Beware of fraudulent job offers.
Promises of licenses without experience or pay without background checks are traps. Avoid them at all costs. -
Build strength in numbers.
Joining Haitian trucking associations or unions provides legal guidance, job leads, and community support. Unity is protection.
“Being part of a trusted community is key to protecting our industry and livelihoods,” says a seasoned Haitian trucking advocate.
“We must stand together to maintain integrity and safety on the road.”
Authorities Tighten the Noose — Expect Increased Crackdowns
Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford described the arrests as “the front lines of our state’s fight against illegal immigration.” Investigations continue, with more charges expected as authorities dismantle this widespread network.
“Illegal licenses will not be tolerated,” Sheriff Ford warned.
“Those who cheat the system endanger themselves and everyone on the road.”
The trucking industry is under intense scrutiny, making now the time for Haitian drivers to recommit to transparency and lawful conduct.
A Call to the Haitian Community — Protect Our Future
The trucking industry can be a lifeline for our community — but only if honesty and responsibility lead the way. Fraud damages us all by putting lives, jobs, and reputations at stake.
“Our community’s reputation is on the line,” warns a longtime Haitian trucker in Miami.
“We must hold ourselves accountable or risk losing everything we’ve worked so hard to achieve.”
We must demand accountability, educate one another, and reject shortcuts. Holding ourselves to the highest standards is the only way to secure a future no one can take away.
Speak Out — Shape the Future of Haitian Trucking
Have you noticed unregulated CDL use in your area? What are your thoughts on stricter licensing rules—even for legal immigrant drivers?
Your voice matters. Share your views in the comments below — together, we can protect our industry and community.
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