Estefan Accused of Sexual Advances

MIAMI (AP) - A Venezuelan actor is seeking a restraining order against music producer Emilio Estefan Jr., accusing him of threats and unwanted sexual advances.

But Estefan, the husband of singer Gloria Estefan , on Tuesday disputed the allegations through his lawyer and described actor Juan Carlos Diaz as an unwanted trespasser.

Diaz on Monday petitioned for an immediate restraining order against Estefan but he was denied. Instead, a hearing was scheduled for Jan. 28 where both parties will testify on Diaz's request for restraining orders against Estefan and his bodyguard.

Diaz, a soap opera actor who appeared in the 2000 film "Escape from Cuba," said Tuesday that Estefan threatened him and "touched him in an unwanted manner" at a gym and that Estefan asked him for sexual favors over a two-year period.

John Hogan, Estefan's lawyer, said his client had been harassed by Diaz and was upset by his "unfounded allegations and scandalous remarks."

According to police reports, Diaz has been given two trespassing warnings, including one when he appeared uninvited at the Estefan's New Year's party at their mansion. "The Estefans have taken appropriate steps to ensure the safety of their family. They also intend to take appropriate legal action against Mr. Diaz," Estefan's production company, Estefan Enterprises, said in a statement.

©2002 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.