Ricky Martin denies the domestic violence allegation lodged against him by a family member. His lawyer called the claims “disgusting” and “untrue.”
A restraining order was granted against Martin in Puerto Rico earlier this month. TMZ cited a report from the Spanish publication Marca that the singer’s brother, Eric Martin, revealed the victim as his 21-year-old nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez.
The petitioner of the restraining order had previously not been publicly identified.
“Ricky Martin has, of course, never been — and would never be — involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew,” attorney Martin Singer told Variety in a statement. “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.”
The singer told the outlet that Sanchez is suffering is struggling with severe mental health challenges.
Puerto Rican newspaper El Vocero reported that Martin and the alleged victim dated for seven months, according to the complaint. The petitioner claimed that Martin had denied the breakup and had been spotted by the victim’s home several times.
The “Livin’ La Vida Loca” singer is due back in court on the 21st, where a judge will decide if the order is continued or terminated. Under Puerto Rican law, Martin could face up to 50 years behind bars for “incest charges.”
In the meantime, the order bars the singer from contacting or calling the petitioner.
Martin also faces a $3 million lawsuit from his former manager, who claims the singer owes her for unpaid commissions.
