Deputies demand thorough investigation following irregularities at juvenile center in Haina
In light of the recent situation reported at the Restaurando Vidas Foundation, located in Haina, San Cristóbal, various legislators have raised their voices to request an exhaustive audit. The main concern lies in how said establishment was able to continue housing minors, despite having been intervened by the authorities in September 2025 and lacking the necessary authorization to operate.
Representatives from the Childhood and Family, Health, and Gender commissions of the Chamber of Deputies have described the finding as a warning sign regarding potential failures in state oversight mechanisms. According to the congress members, it is imperative to clarify why, following a previous intervention, the center continued to operate without the corresponding permits.
That background necessarily changes the dimension of this case. It is necessary for the Public Prosecutor’s Office to report what measures were taken after the first intervention, which institutions were notified, and why minors were found in the same establishment again.
Soraya Suárez, deputy
Focus on comprehensive protection and monitoring
Beyond the search for those responsible, lawmakers emphasized that the primary objective must be the well-being of the rescued minors. In this regard, they have requested that each child and adolescent receive an individualized long-term treatment, protection, and psychological support plan.
- Rigorous medical and psychological evaluation for each minor.
- Establishment of long-term support plans.
- Comprehensive review of the national system for licensing centers for minors.
- Identification of all centers operating outside current regulations.
The congressmen underscored the urgency of strengthening the child protection system in the Dominican Republic. In their view, the State should not limit itself to reacting to tragedies, but must implement a culture of prevention, constant supervision, and effective follow-up of administrative decisions.
This case must mark a turning point. It is not enough to detect, intervene, or warn; we must follow up and enforce decisions. Dominican childhood needs a State that acts in time.
Spokespersons for the Chamber of Deputies commissions
Finally, the deputies assured that they will maintain strict oversight over the development of the investigations, ensuring that, if violations of the minors’ rights are confirmed, the corresponding sanctions will be applied under the framework of due process.
