A Cuban religious leader, identified as Dagmara Domínguez, was taken into custody Wednesday night at Miami International Airport on fraud charges. Known online as an "apostle" and "pastor," Domínguez, 58, has a dynamic presence in Spanish-language preaching videos, boasting nearly 27,000 followers on Instagram.
The arrest followed a fraud complaint filed on January 2 by a man who claims he was deceived in a financial transaction. According to the police report, the victim invested $25,000 expecting a second mortgage as collateral, but instead received a counterfeit document.
Detectives, delving into her business dealings, discovered that beyond her religious organization, Domínguez was linked to nine businesses in Florida, five of which are now inactive. It remains unclear if any of these were tied to the alleged fraud.
Born in Cienfuegos and residing in Miami Lakes, Domínguez identifies herself on Facebook as a pastor at Iglesia Centro Int’ Nuevo Pacto and claims a degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Cienfuegos on LinkedIn. Authorities assert that the allegations involve a scheme related to a loan and a mortgage.
Following her arrest, the prosecution filed criminal charges against Domínguez for organizing a scheme to defraud and forgery. She was transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and was released on a $5,000 bond the following Thursday night. She is slated to appear in court on April 11, with her defense attorney having submitted a written plea of innocence.
The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the stark contrast between Domínguez's public persona as a spiritual leader and the severe fraud allegations she faces.
Understanding the Fraud Case Involving Dagmara Domínguez
What are the charges against Dagmara Domínguez?
Dagmara Domínguez faces charges of organizing a scheme to defraud and forgery related to a loan and a mortgage.
How was the fraud discovered?
The fraud was uncovered after a victim reported investing $25,000 with the expectation of receiving a second mortgage, only to receive a fraudulent document instead.
When is Domínguez expected in court?
Domínguez is scheduled to appear in court on April 11.