Cell phone theft is punishable by up to 20 years in prison

Under the new Dominican Republic Penal Code, the theft of mobile phones is now classified as an aggravated robbery. This legislative change responds to the high frequency of these crimes within the country, establishing a legal framework that allows for prison sentences of up to 20 years for offenders.

Procuradora General Yeni Berenice Reynoso confirmed the classification, highlighting that the severity of the penalty is intended to address the prevalence of phone theft. The measure marks a significant shift in how the judicial system treats the misappropriation of these specific devices.