Ricky Martin. (Getty)
Ricky Martin’s nephew has accused him of incest and abuse, claiming they had a seven-month relationship.
This month, it was reported that Martin had been issued a restraining order in Puerto Rico, after an anonymous accuser who had had a relationship with the singer made a complaint under the Domestic Abuse Prevention and Intervention Act.
It has now been revealed that the individual accusing Martin, 50, is his sister’s son, 21-year-old Dennis Yadiel Sanchez.
Signed on 1 July, the restraining order sets out allegations by Sanchez that he and Martin broke up around two months ago, but that Martin did not accept the separation and had been seen loitering near his house several times. Sanchez also alleges that Martin subjected him to “physical and psychological” abuse.
According to The Independent, Martin’s lawyer Marty Singer said in a statement: “Unfortunately, the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges.
“Ricky Martin has, of course, never been — and would never be – involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew. The idea is not only untrue, it is disgusting.
“We all hope that this man gets the help he so urgently needs. But, most of all, we look forward to this awful case being dismissed as soon as a judge gets to look at the facts.”
When news of the restraining order initially broke, Martin took to social media to release a statement.
He said: “The protection order against me is based on completely false allegations, so I will respond through the judicial process with facts and the dignity that characterise me.
“Because it is an ongoing legal matter, I cannot make detailed statements at this time. I appreciate the innumerable gestures of solidarity and I receive them with all my heart.”
Martin is set to have a hearing relating to the restraining order on Thursday (21 July). In Puerto Rico, crimes involving incest can carry a sentence of up to 50 years.