Death of Patient at El Rescatador Rehab Center Sparks Abuse Allegations in Dominican Republic

Luis René Contreras Martínez, a 42‑year‑old man, died on 10 July at the La Gloria de Dios rehabilitation centre in Boca de Yuma, Dominican Republic. The facility, owned by Juan Carlos Martínez Guerrero and known as “El Rescatador”, was operating without a health‑ministerial licence, though a regularisation process had begun.

Family members and other complainants allege that Contreras suffered physical abuse before his death, citing alleged neck compression and blows to the genital area. A preliminary police report attributes his fatal head injury to a fall from a bunk, with surveillance footage showing him collapsing while trying to rise. Authorities say the public prosecutor and forensic experts will determine whether the incident was an accident or involved criminal negligence.

The case highlights broader concerns about the treatment of people with addictions and mental‑health issues in the Dominican Republic and the lack of effective oversight of unlicensed rehabilitation centres.