Ricky Martin’s 21-year-old nephew has reportedly been identified as the individual who was granted a restraining order against the pop singer earlier this month.
A Puerto Rican judge approved the restraining against Martin on July 2nd, but the identity of the accuser had been unknown until now. According to Spanish newspaper Marca (via People), Martin’s brother, Eric, identified the artist’s nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez, as his accuser.
According to the restraining order, which was filed under Puerto Rico’s domestic violence law, Martin and Sanchez had been in a seven-month relationship. Martin allegedly refused to accept their breakup and was found loitering outside of Sanchez’s home on three different occasions. Sanchez also accused Martin of physical and psychological abuse.
A court hearing is scheduled for July 21st. Until then, Martin is prohibited from contacting his accuser.
Martin and his representatives have denied the claims. “Unfortunately, the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges,” a representative for the singer said. “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.”
In an earlier statement, Martin’s representative said that “the allegations against Ricky Martin that led to a protection order are completely false and fabricated. We are very confident that when the true facts come out in this matter our client Ricky Martin will be fully vindicated.”
In his own statement posted to Instagram on July 4th, Martin said 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 characterize me.”
“Because it is an ongoing legal matter,” Martin added, “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.”
Editor’s Note: This article has been edited to include the latest statement from Martin’s representative.
