Full Breakdown
Ohio Man Convicted of Perjury Over Rwandan Genocide Role
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In this breakdown
01
Core Event: Federal Jury Finds Eric Nshimiye Guilty
On October 28, a federal jury in Boston convicted Eric Nshimiye of four counts of perjury and one count of obstruction of justice for false testimony given during the 2019 immigration-fraud trial of former classmate Jean Leonard Teganya, also accused of participating in the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
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US jury convicts Rwandan American of lying about role in genocide
02
Background & Context
The 1994 Rwandan genocide lasted roughly 100 days, beginning April 7 and ending in mid-July, killing 500,000 to 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu civilians. The ruling MRND party and its armed wing, the Interahamwe, coordinated much of the violence.
03
Data & Statistics
- Conviction counts: four perjury, one obstruction.
- Genocide death toll: 500,000 – 800,000.
- Age of the defendant: reported as 54 or 55.
- U.S. citizenship year: cited as 2003 or 2009.
- Sentencing: set for January 26.
04
Official Statements & Responses
Leah Foley, U.S. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva, said Nshimiye concealed his participation in the genocide for nearly three decades, including “clubbing people to death,” before lying to immigration officials and a federal jury.
05
Criticism & Opposition
Defense attorney Kurt Kerns argued the prosecution relied on “fabricated accusations” and maintained Nshimiye was not present in Butare when the violence began. He suggested the charges were filed only after Nshimiye agreed to testify for Teganya.
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Verbatim Quotes
- “We are obviously very disappointed with the verdict, but we will continue to pursue all avenues of relief on Eric's behalf,” — Kurt Kerns
- “Eric Tabaro Nshimiye lived under a web of lies and deception. He obtained refuge in this Country by lying to immigration officials about his involvement in the Rwandan genocide and the appalling acts he committed on the Tutsi community,” — United States Attorney spokesperson
07
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on two biographical details: the defendant’s age (54 vs. 55) and the year he obtained U.S. citizenship (2003 vs. 2009). The articles do not clarify which figure is correct.
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What’s Next
The court will sentence Nshimiye on January 26. The judge will determine imprisonment length, supervised release, and any fines according to federal sentencing guidelines.