MADRID (AP) — Spanish state prosecutors announced on Friday that they were halting an initial investigation into accusations of sexual assault against renowned singer Julio Iglesias that were reported to have occurred in the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic. The prosecutors concluded that Spain's National Court lacked the jurisdiction to adjudicate on this matter.
Earlier this month, Spanish authorities had initiated an investigation into allegations involving the 82-year-old Grammy-winning global music icon, who was accused of sexually assaulting two former employees at his residences in the Caribbean. Following the emergence of these allegations, Iglesias publicly denied any wrongdoing, expressing his sorrow over the accusations and asserting that he has never abused, coerced, or disrespected any woman.
In a statement on social media, Iglesias wrote, “With deep sorrow, I respond to the accusations made by two people who previously worked at my home. I deny having abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are absolutely false and cause me great sadness.”
The complaints against Iglesias were filed by the two women earlier in the month, as reported by Women’s Link Worldwide, a nongovernmental organization that advocates for women's rights. According to the organization, the women accused Iglesias of “crimes against sexual freedom and indemnity such as sexual harassment” and alleged “human trafficking for the purpose of forced labor and servitude.”
The two women claimed in their complaints that Iglesias frequently checked their cellphones without consent, restricted their movements by not allowing them to leave his residence, and demanded that they work extensive hours—up to 16 hours a day—without a formal contract or days off. At the time the complaint was filed in Spain, Women’s Link Worldwide noted that it had not contacted authorities from the Bahamas or the Dominican Republic and was uncertain whether those nations had initiated any investigations.
Julio Iglesias is recognized as one of the most successful international singers, having released his debut album “Yo Canto” in 1969. Since then, he has sold over 300 million records in multiple languages, achieving immense popularity not only in Spain but also in the wider world, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. His collaborations with U.S. artists, including Willie Nelson and Diana Ross, contributed significantly to his global acclaim.
In 2019, Iglesias received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, adding to his accolades that include winning a Grammy for Best Latin Pop Performance in 1988 for his album “Un Hombre Solo.” He is also known as the father of pop star Enrique Iglesias, further cementing his legacy in the music industry.
The unfolding situation surrounding the allegations against Julio Iglesias raises crucial questions about accountability and the jurisdictional reach of Spanish courts in foreign incidents. The decision to halt the investigation highlights the complexities involved in addressing such serious accusations, particularly when they span multiple countries.
