The wife of a Canadian man, David Bennett, who was arrested in the Dominican Republic on charges of drug trafficking, has reported that all charges against him have been dropped. Despite this development, he remains unable to return to Canada due to ongoing legal complexities. Jane Wilcox, Bennett’s wife, stated that the couple, along with two friends, had enjoyed a week at a resort before their ordeal began on March 7 when Bennett was detained at the automated customs gate at Punta Cana airport.

Once detained, the couple was presented with a photo of a bag that they did not recognize, which had a slightly different name—Davi Bennett—compared to David R. Bennett, the name on her husband's luggage and travel documents. Wilcox emphasized that they insisted the bag did not belong to them, yet her husband was still charged with drug trafficking in the Dominican Republic. After being charged, he was released on a $5,000 bail.

Wilcox reported that, with the assistance of their legal team and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the charges against Bennett were withdrawn a little over two weeks ago. However, despite the withdrawal, Bennett is still not permitted to leave the Dominican Republic. “Our lawyer down there is trying to get in front of a judge, but nothing's happening, and we feel like we’re being forgotten,” said Wilcox in a phone interview.

Before Bennett can return to Canada, additional court paperwork must be processed to confirm the withdrawal of the case, a situation complicated by a significant backlog within the Dominican court system. Wilcox expressed her dismay, stating, “They gave us a 10 to 15-day window for that, which we were horrified by,” noting that the time frame has already been exceeded with no resolution in sight. “We’re thinking, can’t we let this innocent man get home?”

The family has sought help from various authorities, including the local Canadian Embassy, Global Affairs Canada, and Karina Gould, their member of Parliament. Furthermore, Bennett's lawyer has reached out to Jacqueline DeLima Baril, Canada’s ambassador to the Dominican Republic, seeking immediate intervention to facilitate his return.

While Wilcox has been assured that efforts are ongoing to assist them, Bennett remains stranded in the Dominican Republic. Global Affairs Canada and the Canadian Embassy have yet to respond to inquiries regarding the situation. Additionally, Wilcox mentioned that the RCMP has reportedly made an arrest in Canada linked to Bennett's case. However, the RCMP has neither confirmed nor denied the arrest, stating that they are “actively investigating” the matter.

Financially, Wilcox has stated that the family has accumulated approximately $80,000 in legal fees and accommodation costs, a number that continues to increase as Bennett’s situation drags on. Jane expressed deep concern for her husband's well-being, sharing that a recent text from Bennett indicated he was nearing his “breaking point.” “I’m really concerned about him. His mental and physical health is rapidly deteriorating,” she said, adding that the family is under constant stress.

To cope with the emotional toll from this harrowing experience, the couple has begun trauma counseling. Wilcox emphasized the long road ahead even after the legal ordeal is resolved, stating, “I have to remain hopeful, but it’s wearing really thin.”