Sad to report that although continued efforts to improve DR's image as a safe -worry free tourist destination are being undermined by continued reports of rampant crime and police shakedowns. Recently a woman had her carry on bag stolen at of all places the "Finest" hotel in Santo Domingo-Nicolas de Ovando to the tune of a $7,000.00 US loss. Many other people have had their credit card information used for unauthorized purchases after having spent time in DR. Another man who tipped a shoe shine boy was then followed by this boy and stopped by the police. Because he had a viagara pill on him at the time he was accused of soliciting the underage boy for sex and forced to pay the police to release him. Last year an american tourist, Van Teasly was robbed and murdered in his apartment. Robbery was the motive. When is the DR's image going to really improve? When will we see tangible results?