Imo
There is no way that this is about anything but money. We can expect to see general crack-downs on many types of businesses at least untill the next congressional elections and most likely afterwards as well.
Businesses that are easy to attack with little or no evidence (like massage parlors) will be first and more mainstream businesses will follow if no significant public outcry is raised. (my guess is none will)
The supreme court has already determined and announced that prostitution is both legal and socially tolerable in the DR (didn't need to mention it was rampant and impossible to prevent) these centers are being closed on the basis of anti-pimping laws, the heavy handed police actions are being justified on the basis of drugs and sex toys allegedly being found on the premises.
All of you puritans who think it is wonderful to see the DR government finally doing something about prostitution need to do the following:
1) Take notice of how many prostitutes are now plying their wares in malls, parks and stoplights since these crackdowns began - is this something you want to see more of? You will.
2) Remember none of these cases have been to trial yet, all we have so far as reference is the various government agencies justification for their actions. This is by its very nature almost certain to be exaggerated, one-sided and UNPROVEN yet these accounts are being treated as gospel by the press and public alike.
3) Remember that these shakedowns are being done FOR THE MONEY, and as such, if they are successful will soon widen in scope and sccop up anyone who is unlikely to be able to defend himself AND THIS INCLUDES MOST/ALL EXPATS.