DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

The Attorney General Office has opened a formal criminal investigation into dealings of businessman Maxy Montilla Sierra, brother of former First Lady Cándida Montilla. The state prosecutors are reviewing contracts and transactions with state electricity entities, Diario Libre reports.

Diario Libre reports that the Justice Department (Public Ministry) since last year has blocked the bank accounts of Montilla Sierra and sought to impede the transfer of assets while the investigation is on.

Diario Libre investigations link Maxy Montilla. Montilla-related companies are the primary beneficiary of contracting with the state-owned power utilities during the Danilo Medina presidencies (2012-2020). Montilla has denied trafficking of influence and said he won the contracts because he offered better prices.

Diario Libre has also been following how a company with ties to...