Penology in Dominican Republic
Penology in the Dominican Republic is shaped by ongoing efforts to reform a prison system historically marked by overcrowding, poor conditions, and human rights violations. In recent decades, the country has introduced a dual prison system, combining traditional punitive models with a more progressive approach focused on rehabilitation.
🇩🇴 Overview of Penology in the Dominican Republic
1. Legal Framework
Governed by the Dominican Constitution, Penal Code, and Criminal Procedure Code.
The General Directorate of Prisons (Dirección General de Prisiones) and Procuraduría General de la República (Attorney General’s Office) oversee penal administration.
2. Dual Prison System
The Dominican Republic operates two parallel prison systems:
a) Traditional Model ("Old System")
Characterized by:
Overcrowding
Poor infrastructure and sanitation
Gang control and corruption
Minimal rehabilitation services
These prisons often violate basic human rights standards and have been widely criticized by international organizations.
b) "Nuevo Modelo de Gestión Penitenciaria" (New Prison Management Model)
Launched in 2003 to modernize the prison system.
Features:
Focus on rehabilitation, education, and reintegration
Segregation of inmates by crime severity and risk level
Structured daily routines with psychological and vocational support
Stronger administrative oversight and professional prison staff training
This model has shown better outcomes in behavior management and reintegration success.
3. Types of Punishment
Imprisonment (most common for serious crimes)
Fines and sanctions
Conditional release or parole
Alternative measures (limited but expanding)
4. Key Issues and Challenges
Overcrowding: National prison capacity is significantly exceeded in the traditional system.
Slow judicial processes: Many inmates are held in pre-trial detention for extended periods.
Corruption and violence: Particularly in older facilities.
Insufficient mental health and medical care.
Gender-specific needs of female inmates are often neglected.
5. Reforms and International Support
Support from international bodies like the UNDP, OAS, and European Union to expand the New Model across the country.
Emphasis on human rights training, infrastructure upgrades, and policy modernization.
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