Dominican Republic’s new Penal Code expands anti-corruption measures

Santo Domingo.- The newly approved Penal Code introduces a series of measures aimed at strengthening the Dominican Republic’s justice system, expanding anti-corruption tools, increasing transparency and reinforcing accountability in both the public and private sectors.

Among its key provisions are tougher penalties for corruption offenses, longer statutes of limitations for investigating such crimes, and a ban preventing public officials convicted of corruption from holding public office.

The legislation also establishes criminal liability for legal entities, allowing companies to be held criminally responsible for certain crimes committed for their benefit. The measure is intended to encourage stronger corporate compliance programs, internal controls and anti-corruption practices while aligning the country with international legal standards.

In addition, the new code criminalizes offenses such as obstruction of justice, false accusations and illegal financial intermediation, giving authorities broader tools to investigate organized and economic crime.