Public corruption allegations in Dominican Republic

Corruption concerns in the Dominican Republic have been highlighted through specific institutional failures and broader allegations of systemic misconduct.

In the penitentiary sector, the General Directorate of Penitentiary and Correctional Services (DGSPC) reported that during the first half of the year, over 50 employees faced arrests, legal proceedings, or payroll exclusions due to corruption. The DGSPC stated it is working to dismantle covert corruption structures and intends to clean the institution “area by area and center by center” to ensure authorities maintain control over facilities.

More broadly, allegations have surfaced regarding widespread irregularities across at least 13 state institutions, with some reports suggesting issues exist in an estimated 90% of state organs. These allegations include embezzlement, the theft of 15 billion pesos, and illegal multi-employment, where individuals hold multiple paid public positions in violation of the Constitution. Concerns have also been raised regarding the selective nature of judicial proceedings and the effectiveness of the Chamber of Accounts.