Burlington Man Remains Stranded in Dominican Republic After Charges Dropped

David Bennett, a Canadian from Burlington, Ontario, remains stranded in the Dominican Republic despite all drug smuggling charges against him being dropped more than two weeks ago. Bennett was initially detained after being shown a photo of a bag with a similar but incorrect name at the Punta Cana airport, a bag he and his wife insist was not his. Although the Dominican prosecutor has withdrawn the case, Bennett cannot return to Canada until court paperwork is finalized, but a significant backlog has stalled the process far beyond the expected 10 to 15 days. The family has appealed to Canadian officials, including the local embassy, Global Affairs Canada, and their member of Parliament, for intervention, but progress has been slow. The ordeal has caused increasing emotional and financial strain for Bennett and his family, with his wife expressing deep concerns for his health and wellbeing. Efforts by their legal team and Canadian authorities continue, but Bennett's return home remains uncertain.