Dominican Republic: Government Tour of Northern Border and Judicial Developments in Stephora Joseph Case

Northern border: Paliza and defense minister tour communities to reinforce security and development

On March 11, 2026, José Ignacio Paliza, Minister of the Presidency, and Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre, Minister of Defense, conducted a tour of several communities along the northern border of the Dominican Republic.

During the visit, the officials observed cross-border commercial exchanges between Dominican and Haitian citizens in the locality of Tilorí. Authorities also traveled to the community of Guayajayuco, where they met with local leaders.

At the meeting, community representatives presented a range of requests related to improving infrastructure, basic services, and public security in the region.

According to government officials, the tour aimed to strengthen living conditions for residents in border communities while reinforcing national sovereignty. The director general of migration and the commander of the Dominican Army also took part in the official visit.

The government stated that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy designed to consolidate public order, promote economic and social development, and reinforce the presence of the state in border areas.

Justice: coercive measures confirmed in the Stephora Joseph case

Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal of Santiago de los Caballeros confirmed on March 9, 2026, the coercive measures imposed on three employees of the Centro Educativo Leonardo Da Vinci in connection with the death of Haitian teenager Stephora Joseph during a school excursion.

The court maintained a financial guarantee of 500,000 Dominican pesos, along with periodic court appearances and a travel ban preventing the defendants from leaving the country. The public prosecutor’s office had requested an increase in the bail to 50 million pesos, but the court ruled that there was no risk of flight.

As part of the decision, general coordinator Gisela González was released.

The victim’s family has criticized the investigation and is calling for those allegedly responsible to be prosecuted, including the owners of Hacienda Los Caballos, where the school excursion took place. A new hearing in the case is scheduled for March 26, 2026.

The case has reignited public debate about the organization and safety standards of school activities and excursions in the country.

Soraya Ades.