Flamenco singer Diego ‘El Cigala’ sentenced for domestic violence

Court rules on abuse against ex-partner Kina Méndez

by Lorraine Williamson
Diego 'El Cigala' sentenced

Renowned flamenco singer Diego “El Cigala” has been sentenced to two years and one month in prison for physical and verbal abuse against his former partner, fellow flamenco singer Kina Méndez.

The ruling, announced by the Supreme Court of Andalucia (Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Andalucía), highlights multiple instances of abuse throughout their relationship.

The court’s verdict

The court convicted El Cigala of various gender violence-related crimes, including:

  • Abuse: A six-month sentence for an incident of sexual assault in a hotel in Jerez. And an additional eight months for a similar incident in a hotel in Palafrugell (Girona).
  • Aggravated assault: Eleven months for a violent attack in their home in Jerez, which occurred in front of their children.

The singer was also found guilty of continuous harassment within the domestic sphere. As part of the verdict, he is prohibited from contacting or approaching Kina Méndez within 200 metres for a period of six months to two years.

An objection to the ruling can still be filed.

A relationship marked by success and tension

El Cigala’s relationship with Kina Méndez began in 2014, marked by both his professional successes and significant personal conflicts. The couple had two children, who were present during some of the incidents of violence for which the singer was convicted.

According to the court, Méndez was financially dependent on El Cigala throughout their relationship. The singer controlled their finances, ensuring she had no independent bank account or credit card. All household expenses, including food, clothing, and childcare, were handled exclusively by him.

Gender violence convictions

The crimes for which El Cigala was convicted underscore the severity of gender-based violence in Spain. The court’s findings, as reported by El País, included instances of physical, verbal, and psychological abuse. The abuse occurred on multiple occasions and in various locations, including hotels and the family home.

The aggravated assault in the family home was particularly serious due to the presence of their children, a factor that weighed heavily in the court’s sentencing.

Legal and cultural impact

This case sheds light on ongoing efforts in Spain to combat gender violence, an issue that remains a major societal concern. The ruling follows a growing trend of legal and cultural accountability for public figures involved in domestic abuse.

El Cigala, known for his deep and soulful interpretations of flamenco, now faces significant personal and professional consequences.

Also read: Thousands rally across Spain for the elimination of violence against women 

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