New Criminal Code will come into effect in August 2026

Santo Domingo. – Starting August 2026, the Dominican Republic will begin to apply the new Penal Code, following its promulgation this Sunday by President Luis Abinader, after its final approval in the National Congress last Thursday. The regulations replace the penal regime in force since 1884, considered obsolete in the face of the complexities of modern crime. The new legal framework, established in Law 74-25, introduces more than 70 new criminal figures, strengthens prevention, protection, and punishment mechanisms, and incorporates socio-judicial measures focused on social reintegration and citizen security.

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Among the crimes classified for the first time are femicide, contract killing, cyberbullying, economic violence, the dissemination of deepfakes for blackmail, pyramid schemes, self-kidnapping, incitement to suicide, obstruction of justice, and doping with harmful effects. Criminal liability of legal persons is also recognized and crimes of crimes against humanity, genocide and forced disappearance are classified. One of the most significant changes is the increase in the maximum prison sentence to 40 years and the possibility of accumulation of sentences in cases of multiple offenses. Likewise, post-penitentiary measures are contemplated, such as the registration of sex offenders, post-sentence surveillance, and re-education and social reintegration programs. In terms of rights and protection, the Code contemplates stronger protection orders for victims of gender-based and domestic violence, and extends to 30 years the statute of limitations for sexual offenses against minors and vulnerable persons, counted from when the victim reaches the age of majority. Regarding the fight against corruption, the new legislation toughens sanctions, extends statute of limitations and establishes disqualification from holding public office for those who commit these crimes. The government highlighted that this reform not only seeks punishment, but also adopts a preventive and resocializing approach, aligned with the principles of a social and democratic rule of law.

“This update equips the Dominican penal system with modern tools to confront criminality in all its forms and guarantee the effective protection of victims,” highlights the statement from the Presidency.

With the entry into force of the new Criminal Code, the country takes a decisive step towards a more modern, balanced, and sensitive justice system to contemporary challenges in terms of security, human rights, and the fight against impunity.