Former Dominican Vice Consul in Aruba Wanted in Criminal Case

The Dominican Republic’s National Police, through its Central Directorate of Investigation (DICRIM), has issued an international alert and arrest warrants for two individuals from the Croes family, considered dangerous and wanted for serious crimes.

Authorities confirmed that the warrants were issued against Raúl Ernesto Guzmán Croes (36) and Leony Esmeralda Croes (58). Leony Croes is well known in Aruba, having served as the former Vice Consul of the Dominican Republic in Aruba from 2011, appointed by Dominican Government Decree 196-11.

Both are accused of criminal association, high-tech crimes, and money laundering in the Dominican Republic. Their names also appear in U.S. court cases in Texas related to alleged piracy of Dish Network LLC and NagraStar LLC satellite signals in 2017.

Dominican authorities warn that Raúl Guzmán Croes is believed to be armed and involved in organized cybercrime, copyright violations, and money laundering. For Leony Croes, in addition to similar charges, suspicions include possible terrorism financing.

An arrest warrant with number 0074-September 2025 has been issued against her. Authorities believe capturing both suspects will aid in combating organized crime, especially cyber-related offenses.

The Dominican police are asking the public to provide information on their whereabouts, with a tip line available at (809) 682-2151 ext. 19906.

Meanwhile, questions are being raised in the Dominican Republic about how Leony Croes was once appointed Vice Consul in Aruba despite alleged past criminal links, sparking criticism of the government’s vetting process for official diplomatic posts.