Dominican authorities arrested a woman Tuesday at Las Américas International Airport (AILA) on charges related to disrespecting the national anthem.
Details of the Arrest
Alicia Anabel Santos Díaz, 54, was arrested based on Judicial Order number 2025-AJ0051862, issued on August 7, 2025, by Judge Fátima Veloz of the Tenth Instruction Court of the National District. Santos Díaz, a resident of the United States, is being investigated for actions defined as criminal under articles 37 and 39 of Law 210-19, which regulates the use of Dominican patriotic symbols.
The investigation also includes Yoseli Castillo Fuertes. Both women organized an event featuring a modified version of the Dominican national anthem. They invited the audience to stand and sing along with altered lyrics, using the same melody as the official anthem.
The event took place at the Centro Cultural de España in the Zona Colonial. According to authorities, this constituted a disrespect of the national anthem, which the Dominican Constitution defines as unique and invariable.
The Public Ministry acted on evidence gathered from social media and formal complaints filed by the Permanent Commission of Patriotic Ephemerides (CPEP), the Duartian Institute, and other organizations.
Legal Considerations
The arrest warrant acknowledges the importance of freedom, as enshrined in the Dominican Constitution, but also notes that freedom can be restricted when public order or good customs are affected by a citizen’s actions, with a warrant issued by a competent judicial authority.
What Happens Next?
It is likely that Santos Díaz will be formally arraigned and a trial date set. Depending on the evidence presented and the court’s interpretation of Law 210-19, she could face penalties as outlined in the legislation. Castillo Fuertes may also face legal proceedings. A possible next step is for the court to consider arguments regarding the intent and impact of the altered anthem lyrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Alicia Anabel Santos Díaz?
Alicia Anabel Santos Díaz is a 54-year-old woman residing in the United States who was arrested at Las Américas International Airport on charges related to disrespecting the Dominican national anthem.
What law is Santos Díaz accused of violating?
Santos Díaz is accused of violating articles 37 and 39 of Law 210-19, which regulates the use of patriotic symbols in the Dominican Republic.
Where did the alleged offense take place?
The alleged offense took place at the Centro Cultural de España in the Zona Colonial, during an event organized by Santos Díaz and Yoseli Castillo Fuertes.
What role does cultural expression play in a society’s understanding of national identity?
