Spanish prosecutors back abuse probe into Julio Iglesias

Spanish prosecutors are considering opening an investigation into veteran singer Julio Iglesias for alleged abuse of two women ex-employees, according to legal sources. The women, a domestic worker and a physiotherapist, claim they suffered sexual abuse and forced labor while working at Iglesias' properties in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas in 2021.

Iglesias, 83, who is a Grammy winner and has sold over 300 million records, denies the allegations, stating he has never abused, coerced, or disrespected any woman. Initially, prosecutors dismissed the first complaint in January, citing that Spanish courts had no jurisdiction over the events that allegedly took place in the Caribbean countries.

However, a second complaint filed in September has been deemed eligible for investigation by Madrid's Audiencia Nacional court, which specializes in complex cases involving Spaniards who commit crimes abroad. The decision to proceed with the investigation is now up to the court, with no further details provided on the rationale behind the change of opinion.

Women's Link Worldwide, an advocacy group representing the complainants, argues that Spanish courts have jurisdiction due to a law that allows for the investigation and prosecution of offenses committed outside the country when there are relevant links with Spain.