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Jet Set nightclub trial: Plaintiffs seek voluntary manslaughter charges
The trial regarding the April 8, 2025, collapse of the Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic has taken a significant turn. Plaintiffs' attorneys have formally requested that the legal classification of the charges against Antonio and Maribel Espaillat be changed from involuntary manslaughter to voluntary manslaughter with eventual intent (dolo eventual).
Under the current charge brought by the Public Ministry, the defendants face a maximum of two years in prison. However, if the court accepts the new classification, they could face up to 30 years. The plaintiffs argue that evidence, including structural reports showing a 20% beam overload and testimony regarding known water leaks and ceiling issues, proves the owners acted with awareness of the risks.
Judge Franny González Castillo has adjourned the proceedings to allow the defense to prepare arguments against this new legal standing. The plaintiffs have also requested that, should the change be granted, the case be transferred to a collegiate court to handle the increased severity of the potential sentence.
Entities
Antonio Espaillat · Cuarta Sala Penal del Distrito Nacional · Distrito Nacional · Franny González Castillo · Gregory Adames · Jet Set · Maribel Espaillat
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 4 SOURCES] Plaintiffs requested that if the classification is changed, the case be transferred to a collegiate court due to the increased potential sentence. www.portadanacional.com · almomento.net · www.diariolibre.com · hoy.com.do
- [● 5 SOURCES] If the legal classification is changed to voluntary manslaughter, the defendants could face up to 30 years in prison instead of two. bajotecho.com.do · francomacorisanos.com · infoenn.com · www.portadanacional.com · almomento.net
- [● 3 SOURCES] Former employees testified regarding water leaks and ceiling issues prior to the collapse. ahoranoticiasrd.com · sabanetaprimero.com · n.com.do
- [● 9 SOURCES] Plaintiffs' attorneys have requested the legal classification be changed to voluntary manslaughter with eventual intent (dolo eventual). bajotecho.com.do · francomacorisanos.com · infoenn.com · mediodigitalrd.com · www.portadanacional.com · +4 more
- [● 4 SOURCES] The collapse of the Jet Set nightclub roof on April 8, 2025, resulted in 236 deaths and over 180 injuries. ahoranoticiasrd.com · infoenn.com · mediodigitalrd.com · almomento.net
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Public Ministry has charged Antonio and Maribel Espaillat with involuntary manslaughter and involuntary assault and battery. ahoranoticiasrd.com
- [● 4 SOURCES] Judge Franny González Castillo adjourned the hearing to allow the defense to prepare arguments regarding the requested change in legal classification. bajotecho.com.do · mediodigitalrd.com · www.portadanacional.com · eldia.com.do
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Structural expert reports revealed fatigue in the building and a load overload of approximately 20% on the beams. hoy.com.do