In a case that has garnered national attention, the Ministerio Público (Public Ministry) of the Dominican Republic’s prosecutors are pushing for a 10-year prison term and substantial fines against Elizabeth Silverio. The defendant faces serious allegations of document forgery, fraud, and endangering autistic children. The Tercer Tribunal Colegiado del Distrito Nacional (Third Collegiate Court of the National District) is presiding over this contentious trial.

Silverio stands accused of fabricating academic credentials to present herself as a qualified neuroscientist and psychologist. Prosecutors allege she used these false qualifications to establish and run the Kogland Center, which offered neurocognitive and psychopedagogical therapies. The prosecution contends that Silverio's actions not only deceived families of autistic children but also placed these vulnerable minors at risk by providing unqualified care.

The legal charges stem from multiple violations of the Dominican Penal Code, including forging public documents, using falsified papers, committing fraud, and practicing medicine without proper licensing. Court proceedings have reportedly unveiled evidence of Silverio's alleged document falsification scheme.

As the trial nears its conclusion, both the prosecution and defense are presenting their final arguments. Cándido Simón, representing Silverio, has indicated that due to the case's complexity and volume of evidence, the court may need additional time to reach a verdict.

Prior to a recent hearing, Silverio, flanked by her legal counsel, expressed readiness for the court's decision while maintaining faith in the judicial process. She reflected on the gravity of her situation, stating her preparedness to face any outcome with dignity.

Beyond the potential prison sentence, prosecutors are also seeking the destruction of all fraudulent documents and equipment allegedly used by Silverio. This case has spotlighted critical issues surrounding professional credentials in healthcare and the vulnerabilities faced by families seeking specialized care for children with special needs.

The impending verdict is highly anticipated, as it could establish a precedent for similar cases of healthcare fraud and endangerment. The court's ruling will not only decide Silverio's fate but also signal the Dominican Republic's stance on offenses against vulnerable populations in the healthcare sector.