Spanish authorities have formally launched a preliminary inquiry into Julio Iglesias, one of the most successful Latin artists of all time. The investigation follows a criminal complaint filed at the Audiencia Nacional in Madrid, alleging a pattern of abuse and labor exploitation at the singer’s private estates.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Core Allegations
- Sexual Violence: The complaint includes allegations of non-consensual sexual penetration and unwanted physical contact.
- Forced Labor: Employees described “slavery-like” conditions, including 16-hour shifts without breaks and the confiscation or monitoring of personal mobile phones.
- Degrading Treatment: Reports indicate that female staff were allegedly coerced into mandatory gynecological exams and medical screenings for STDs.
- Recruitment Fraud: Prosecutors are examining “human trafficking for forced labor,” based on claims that the workers were recruited under false pretenses and kept in a state of servitude.
The Legal Context
While the alleged crimes occurred outside of Spain, the Audiencia Nacional maintains jurisdiction because Julio Iglesias is a Spanish citizen. This legal principle allows the Spanish judiciary to prosecute its nationals for serious crimes committed on foreign soil.
Public and Political Fallout
The revelations, first brought to light by elDiario.es and Univision, have sparked a national outcry in Spain.
- Government Stance: High-ranking officials have labeled the testimonies “chilling,” leading to calls for Iglesias to be stripped of national honors, including his Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts.
- The Defense: At 82 years old, Iglesias has remained silent since the news broke. His legal team has yet to provide a formal rebuttal to the specific criminal charges.
