# Dominican Republic new Penal Code implementation > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-new-penal-code-implementation > Updated: 2026-10-18T19:45:19.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2. Following the implementation of a new Penal Code in August, Dominican Republic Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso has been clarifying the legal implications and penalties associated with various offenses. In response to misconceptions, Reynoso addressed medical malpractice, stating that the myth of physicians facing cumulative prison sentences of up to 60 years for negligence is incorrect. She clarified that such extreme penalties are reserved for grave crimes unrelated to medical practice, whereas malpractice is defined as a “rupture of the duty to care.” In separate discussions, the Attorney General highlighted other significant updates to the legislation, which replaces code dating back to 1884. She warned that driving under the influence of alcohol resulting in death can lead to up to 20 years in prison. Furthermore, she noted that firing firearms into the air resulting in injury or death may be classified as homicide with eventual intent rather than involuntary manslaughter. Reynoso also addressed digital crimes, noting that false social media accounts do not provide anonymity for defamation or attacks on reputation. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-18: Dominican Republic Attorney General warns of prison terms under new Penal Code Dominican Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso warned that drunk driving causing death can lead to 20 years in prison under the new Penal Code. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-attorney-general-warns-of-prison-terms-under-new-penal-code ### 2026-10-16: Yeni Berenice Reynoso clarifies medical malpractice penalties Attorney General Yeni Berenice Reynoso clarified that the new Dominican Penal Code does not allow for 60-year cumulative sentences for medical malpractice, debunking myths circulating on social media. 9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/yeni-berenice-reynoso-clarifies-medical-criminal-law-under-new-penal-code --- Cite as: Dominican Republic new Penal Code implementation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-new-penal-code-implementation