Dominican YouTuber Banned From Leaving Country After Defamation Lawsuit

Dominican YouTuber Ángel Martínez Faces Travel Ban After Defamation Accusation Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – YouTuber Ángel Martínez is facing a travel ban after a defamation lawsuit filed against him by deputy Sergio Gory Moya. The Second Criminal Court of the National District lifted the arrest warrant on May 28th, 2025, but imposed the travel restriction. Martínez, known for his YouTube channel's critical reporting, was arrested on Monday in Puerto Plata. "The government of the Dominican Republic is holding me back within the national territory; I cannot leave the country because they want to attack me," Martínez stated to reporters outside the courthouse. Martínez's lawyer announced plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the charges do not align with the reality of the situation. "This is a case of an alleged violation of a freedom of expression law," the lawyer explained. The lawyer also highlighted the difficult situation of the complainant, Deputy Moya. The accusations stem from a video linking Moya to drug trafficking. The case highlights the ongoing tension between media personalities and politicians in the Dominican Republic. The next court hearing is scheduled for June 26th, 2025.