Latin Star Denies Alleged Inappropriate Behavior With His Nephew

Singer, Ricky Martin could face up to 50 years behind bars, after his 21-year-old nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez, accused him of domestic violence and incest in Puerto Rico.

Earlier this month it was reported that an unidentified victim had made domestic violence and sexual assault allegations against Martin. On Friday the accuser was identified as Martin’s nephew. Sanchez obtained a temporary restraining order against Martin, who faces harsher penalties if convicted of incest and sex crimes under Puerto Rican law.

Martin is set to be in court on July 21.

The Spanish newspaper reported that Martin and Sanchez had been engaged in an intimate relationship for seven months before Sanchez decided to end things. Sanchez claimed that Martin refused to accept the relationship was over and continued to contact him and make unwelcome visits to Sanchez’s home.

Martin’s attorney, Marty Singer spoke on the singer’s behalf Friday evening. “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,” Singer said.

“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,” Singer added.