Officials are warning Americans to “exercise increased caution” when traveling to a popular summer tourist destination in light of violent crime rates and a lack of law enforcement resources throughout the country. 

The United States Department of State has issued an updated travel advisory for the Dominican Republic, according to the agency’s website. 

“Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists,” the department said in a statement. “Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals from online in secluded locations.”

In a security report released in December 2024, the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) pointed to the Dominican Republic’s heightened levels of organized crime, such as drug trafficking and money laundering. 

The Dominican Republic is currently listed as a Level 2 travel advisory by the U.S. Department of State. (iStock)

“The wide availability of weapons, the use of drugs, and the developing criminal justice system all contribute to the high level of criminality in the country,” the OSAC previously said in a December 2024 security report, adding that “a lack of law enforcement resources, poorly paid and trained police officers, and corruption exacerbate the situation.”