Dennis Yadiel Sanchez withdrew allegations of incest and domestic violence against Latin pop sensation Ricky Martin on Thursday.
Sanchez, Martin’s nephew, had alleged that he and Martin were involved in a sexual relationship for seven months, after which time he called things off, but claimed Martin continued to harass him, according to TMZ. Martin appeared in court via Zoom as the claims against him were dismissed. “Just as we had anticipated, the temporary protection order was not extended by the court,” Martin’s legal team told TMZ.
Ricky Martin Wins in Court, Nephew’s Restraining Order Dismissed https://t.co/RIiktdOVUN
— TMZ (@TMZ) July 21, 2022
Under Puerto Rican law, Martin would have been facing up to 50 years in prison for crimes related to incest, according to the National Post. His legal team made it clear that Martin’s 21-year-old nephew had withdrawn the claims on his own accord. “The accuser confirmed to the court that his decision to dismiss the matter was his alone, without any outside influence or pressure,” his team said, according to TMZ.
Martin’s brother, Eric, had previously stated that Sanchez suffered from mental illness, according to Music Times. (RELATED: Crew Member From ‘Law & Order Organized Crime’ Shot And Killed)
Ricky Martin is reportedly facing 50 years behind bars in his domestic violence case, where the alleged victim is his 21-year-old nephew. https://t.co/bM15A0FOQP
— TMZ (@TMZ) July 15, 2022
“The request came from the accuser asking to dismiss the case. This was never anything more than a troubled individual making false allegations with absolutely nothing to substantiate them,” Martin’s team said, according to TMZ.
Martin has always denied the allegations against him. “We are glad that our client saw justice done and can now move forward with his life and his career,” said his team, according to TMZ.