Legal actions against Jet Set nightclub owners rise to 82

Santo Domingo.- Almost 24 hours after his arrest, Antonio Espaillat—owner of the Jet Set nightclub—met with his legal team at the Ciudad Nueva Palace of Justice, where they reported he is in good spirits and awaiting a coercive measure. His sister, Maribel Espaillat, although in the custody of the Prosecutor’s Office, has not yet been transferred to the courthouse, reportedly due to health reasons. Her lawyer declined to comment on her exact location.

The Espaillat siblings are under investigation for involuntary manslaughter related to the collapse of the Jet Set nightclub roof on April 8, which resulted in 236 deaths and over 180 injuries. Prosecutors allege the tragedy was caused by negligence in maintaining the building.

Authorities also claim the siblings attempted to influence or intimidate employees of the nightclub, who may serve as witnesses in the case. As of midday Friday, 82 legal complaints had been filed against them. The Public Ministry has until Saturday afternoon to formally request a coercive measure.