Ricky Martin accused of incest by 21-year-old nephew

Under the allegations made by Dennis Yadiel Sanchez, the singer could face up to 50 years if convicted

Domestic abuse allegations were levelled against Ricky Martin earlier this month in Puerto Rico, with a restraining order being issued against the artist. According to Billboard, the accuser — who filed the order anonymously — was Martin’s 21-year-old nephew, who alleged he had dated the singer for seven months before things became sour between them.

Under the allegations made by Dennis Yadiel Sanchez, it is said that he ended a seven-month relationship with Martin and that the Tu Recuerdo crooner did not take it well, consistently reaching out to him and loitering outside his home.  “Ricky Martin has, of course, never been — and would never be — involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew,” Marty Singer, Martin’s attorney, said in a statement to the publication.

He continued, “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.”

Sanchez shared that there was physical and psychological abuse that occurred during the relationship. While the legal battle is set to begin on July 21, under Puerto Rican law, allegations of incest are taken very seriously. If proven guilty, the artist could be sentenced to up to 50 years in prison, reported People magazine.

On July 4, the Livin' La Vida Loca vocalist strongly denied the accusations on the micro-blogging site Twitter, remaining positive that the matter would be resolved. "The protection order entered against me is based on completely false allegations, so I will respond through the judicial process with the facts and the dignity that characterise me," Martin wrote.

"Because it is an ongoing legal matter, I cannot make detailed statements at this time. I am grateful for the countless messages of solidarity, and I receive them with all my heart." Martin has not made any further statements since.

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.