In one of the more bizarre celebrity stories of the year so far - which is really saying something - the 'Ricky Martin restraining order' debacle has taken an unusual and potentially disturbing twist.
A week or so ago, reports emerged from Puerto Rico that a restraining order had been issued by an 'ex-partner' against the Latino pop star.
According to local paper 'El Vocero', the alleged couple split two months ago and Martin did not accept the relationship had ended. "He calls him frequently," the order allegedly reads, according to El Vocero. "In addition, the petitioner has seen him hanging around his residence on at least 3 occasions. The petitioner fears for his safety."
In recent days, it has been confirmed that the person who was granted the restraining order is Martin's 21-year-old nephew Dennis, who is alleging that he had a 7-month-long affair with his uncle.
On Friday, a lawyer for the singer strenuously denied the claims. "Unfortunately, the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges," said Marty Singer. "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."
A hearing will take place in Puerto Rico this Thursday, July 21st - but if found guilty of the charge 'domestic abuse with a relative', Martin could face up to 50 years in prison.
Meanwhile, Martin's brother Eric - the father of the complainant - uploaded a video to social media (below, in Spanish) defending his brother, and backing up his lawyer's claim that his son suffers from mental health problems. He also claimed that his son - and Martin's nephew - is estranged from the family.
Martin is currently in Los Angeles filming a series for Apple, but will attend the hearing in Puerto Rico this week.
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this story, help is available at the Samaritans, Safe Ireland, Women's Aid and Men's Aid.
