SANTO DOMINGO – The National District Attorney’s Office has officially summoned Esmelin Santiago Matías García, widely known as Alofoke, to appear for questioning in response to a defamation and slander complaint lodged by comedian and actor Manolo Ozuna Carmona. The hearing is scheduled for July 10 at 10:00 a.m.
The case is being investigated by the High Technology Crimes and Offenses Unit, a specialized body within the Public Ministry tasked with addressing offenses committed through digital platforms. The proceedings fall under the jurisdiction of Law 53-07, which governs crimes involving information and communication technologies in the Dominican Republic.
According to legal documents, the complaint was filed by attorney José Valdez Fernández, who represents Ozuna. The comedian alleges that Alofoke made defamatory and insulting remarks about him during a recent broadcast of one of his popular media programs. The statements, reportedly made online and publicly disseminated, are claimed to have damaged Ozuna’s reputation.
The legal action accuses Matías of violating Articles 21 and 22 of Law 53-07. These provisions specifically prohibit the use of electronic or digital means to issue statements that constitute slander or defamation. Article 21 focuses on defamation through digital platforms, while Article 22 outlines penalties for public insults or slander made via technological media.
In a statement to the press, attorney Valdez confirmed that he intends to present digital evidence during the inquiry to substantiate the claims made by his client. “We have documentation that clearly shows Mr. Ozuna was publicly attacked and insulted,” Valdez said. “These statements were not only baseless but were shared in a way that violated his rights and harmed his image.”
The summons marks a significant development in a case that highlights the growing legal scrutiny over the use of digital platforms for commentary and public discourse in the Dominican Republic. As online influencers, podcasters, and digital media personalities like Alofoke gain increasing reach and influence, legal experts say the boundaries between free expression and defamation are being tested more frequently.
Matías, known for his controversial style and wide-reaching digital media empire, has yet to publicly respond to the allegations. His platforms, particularly YouTube and social media channels, have attracted millions of followers and frequently feature commentary on Dominican entertainment, politics, and celebrity culture.
The National District Attorney’s Office emphasized that the legal process will follow established procedures to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to pursue formal charges. If found in violation of Law 53-07, the accused could face criminal penalties, including fines and possible imprisonment.
The outcome of the hearing on July 10 could have broader implications for digital content creators across the country, particularly as Dominican law enforcement continues to apply existing legislation to emerging forms of online communication.
