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The Cuban rapper Michael Marichal, known for his critical lyrics against the Castro regime and for his significant presence in the exile community, denied having committed any crime in relation to the charges of aggravated harassment and cyber harassment he is facing in Miami-Dade County.
In an exclusive interview with Telemundo 51, the 49-year-old artist described the allegations as part of a "plot" orchestrated to damage his public image and claimed that the events have been misinterpreted.
"I am frustrated because they are attacking my reputation from different fronts, but I am calm because I trust in the law," he declared.
According to the police report, Marichal allegedly sent dozens of text messages, emails, and social media posts directed at an ex-partner, in which, among other things, he accused her of transmitting a sexually transmitted disease to him.
The woman also reported that the rapper tried to contact her children and coworkers, which, in her opinion, constitutes a pattern of persistent harassment.
Marichal admitted to sending messages, but stated that they were for practical or explanatory purposes.
According to him, some were to reclaim personal items, such as medications for their dogs, and to discuss issues related to a shared phone plan, as well as an alleged infidelity that affected the relationship.
"I sent her a screenshot of a medical article because she was telling me that what she had was due to some chemicals she was using in competitions. I just wanted to understand what happened," he explained.
One of the most controversial elements of the case is the sending of a box of condoms, which was also mentioned in the police report.
Marichal did not deny this fact, but defended it by stating that it was not a threat, but rather a "preventive" gesture.
"It was almost a favor. I sent a message saying it was so no one else would get sick. I don’t see how that could be harassment," he argued.
The authorities' report indicates that the alleged victim felt intimidated and decided to file a complaint on June 5, fearing for her safety due to what she described as unpredictable behavior from the artist.
Consequently, the court ordered Marichal to wear an electronic tag and issued a restraining order against the woman.
During the interview, the rapper also recounted conflicting episodes within the relationship, accusing his ex-partner of questionable behaviors.
As an example, she mentioned an incident in which she allegedly jumped over a fence onto private property and got injured, claiming to have photos, messages, and witnesses that would support her account.
Despite the controversy, Marichal assures that he has received support from his followers, both for his music and his political stance.
"I have been attacked on social media, but I have also received support. All I ask is to be allowed to share my side of the story. The truth must come to light," she stated.
The singer recently appeared before a judge, who imposed mobility and contact restrictions on him. The case is still under investigation by the Miami-Dade County authorities, while the progress of the judicial process is awaited.
Telemundo 51 attempted to contact the alleged victim to hear their side of the story, but so far there has been no response.
The case became public on June 20, when it was revealed that Michael Marichal had been arrested in South Florida and charged with aggravated harassment and cyberstalking against his ex-girlfriend.
According to the report from Local 10, the victim stated that she feared for her safety and decided to contact the police because of the behavior of the accused, of whom she claimed "she did not know what he was capable of."
Michael Marichal gained notoriety in 2022 with his song "Your Revolution", a piece that openly opposes the Cuban dictatorship, which provided him visibility as a dissenting figure in the artistic realm of the exile community.
After his arrest, he was held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with bail set at $7,500.
The legal process is still ongoing, and the artist is expected to face a new court hearing soon, where the direction of the case will be determined.
The county authorities have not made any additional statements.
Frequently asked questions about the accusations against the Cuban rapper Michael Marichal
What are the accusations against Michael Marichal?
The Cuban rapper Michael Marichal is facing accusations of aggravated harassment and cyber harassment against his former partner. According to the police report, the artist allegedly sent multiple text messages, emails, and social media posts directed at his ex-girlfriend, in addition to attempting to contact her children and coworkers.
How has Michael Marichal responded to these accusations?
Michael Marichal has denied committing any crime and characterized the allegations as part of a "scheme" to damage his reputation. Marichal admitted to having sent messages, but stated that these were for practical or explanatory purposes, such as requesting personal items or discussing a shared phone plan.
What legal actions have been taken against Michael Marichal?
After being arrested, Michael Marichal was given a bail of $7,500 and was fitted with an electronic ankle monitor. Additionally, he has been prohibited from approaching the alleged victim by a restraining order.
How has this case affected the public image of Michael Marichal?
The case has generated significant media attention and could tarnish the career and public image of Marichal, who is known for his critical stance against the Cuban regime. However, the rapper claims to have received support from his followers, who value both his music and his political position.
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