Young Man Brutally Beaten During Police Raid in Barahona

Barahona, Dominican Republic – A young man, Rafael Valentín Hoto, was arrested during a police raid in the early hours of Sunday, June 8th, 2025. While initial reports indicated Hoto was taken into custody without incident, he later arrived at the Hospital Regional Universitario Dr. Jaime Mota with multiple injuries. A video circulating on social media shows the arrest and Hoto's subsequent condition, raising serious concerns about police conduct. Eyewitnesses claim that Hoto was seen leaving his residence on Avenida Luperón in apparent good health. However, shortly after, he was admitted to the hospital with severe injuries. One witness stated, "They grabbed him; there's video showing they took him healthy, and now look at him." The footage shows police officers entering Hoto's home and apprehending him. The video then depicts Hoto in the hospital with visible injuries to his head and torso. The National Police have yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. The case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within law enforcement.