Dominican Republic justice system criticized over handling of state crime cases

The Dominican Republic justice system faces criticism regarding its prioritization of cases. Observers note a contrast between the swift prosecution of animal cruelty and the perceived institutional neglect of significant state crimes.

In April, a woman was sentenced to a suspended prison term and a fine for hitting a dog. In contrast, the 2003 assassination of Carlos Everstz Fournier in Santiago remains a point of contention. Fournier, a hitman, had previously confessed to involvement in over 38 contract killings during the Trujillo dictatorship and the 12-year administration of Joaquín Balaguer.

Before his death, Fournier claimed a police colonel had offered him money to assassinate Senator Dario Gones. His death is viewed by some as a means to suppress information regarding various murders allegedly ordered by military, police, and civilian actors during those political eras.