Madrid – Spanish prosecutors have dismissed a complaint alleging sexual assault and human trafficking against singer Julio Iglesias, citing a lack of jurisdiction because the alleged incidents occurred outside of Spain.
Allegations Shelved Amid Jurisdiction Dispute
Table of Contents
The case, brought by two former employees, centers on claims of abuse during their employment at Iglesias’s Caribbean properties.
- Two former employees accused the 82-year-old singer of sexual assault and harassment.
- The complaint was filed with Spain’s highest criminal court, the Audiencia Nacional.
- Prosecutors determined Spanish courts lacked the authority to investigate offenses that didn’t occur within the country.
- Legal action could still be pursued in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas.
The accusations surfaced following a three-year joint investigation by elDiario.es and Univision Noticias, which compiled testimony from 15 former employees who worked for Iglesias between the late 1990s and 2023. The two complainants – identified as Rebeca and Laura to protect their privacy – alleged a pattern of inappropriate touching, insults, and humiliation within a controlling and harassing environment.
Details of the Allegations
Rebeca, a former domestic worker, stated that Iglesias, then 77, routinely summoned her to his room after work. She alleges he subjected her to non-consensual anal and vaginal penetration “almost every night,” describing the experience as feeling “like an object, like a slave.” According to Rebeca, these assaults were often witnessed and facilitated by a superior employee.
Laura, a former physical therapist, claimed Iglesias kissed her on the mouth and touched her breasts without her consent.
elDiario.es also reported on documents suggesting Iglesias allegedly required some female employees to undergo tests for sexually transmitted diseases.
Iglesias Denies the Claims
Iglesias has vehemently denied all allegations, characterizing them as “a serious affront” and stating his intention to defend himself. In a statement posted on Instagram a week ago, he wrote, “With great regret, I am responding to the allegations from two people who used to work in my house. I have never abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are absolutely false and pain me deeply.”
The decision by Spanish prosecutors on Friday indicated that while the Audiencia Nacional could not pursue the case, prosecution could potentially be sought in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas, where the alleged offenses took place.
Keep reading
