A former contestant from Love Is Blind: Argentina has been sentenced to prison after being convicted of attempted murder, repeated assault, and unlawful detention involving Emily Ceco, the woman he met on the show.

Santiago Martínez, who appeared on the 2024 season at age 29, formed a relationship with Ceco, then 24. The pair reached the end of the show and took part in a civil ceremony, even planning a private wedding. However, their relationship changed dramatically soon afterward.

In February 2025, Ceco reported Martínez for gender-based violence after an incident left her injured, leading her to end the engagement. She later obtained a restraining order, and Martínez was removed from the show as legal proceedings continued.

On March 25, 2026, Martínez was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Prosecutors had sought 16 years, while the defense attempted a plea deal that was ultimately rejected. Ceco later said that the sentence brought her a sense of “peace,” though she remained concerned about what might happen after his release.

In statements following the verdict, Ceco reflected on the fear she experienced throughout the process. She described giving testimony in court as overwhelming and emotional, noting that Martínez apologized during his statement. Her family, including her brother, supported her throughout the proceedings.

After the sentencing, Ceco shared a message on Instagram, saying she was still processing everything. She wrote about the fear and uncertainty she faced, but also about the determination that helped her continue and the support she received from loved ones and strangers alike.

She expressed gratitude to her family, those who encouraged her, and her attorneys, emphasizing that although the experience would not be erased, she felt her story had finally been acknowledged.

Ceco ended her message by saying she is healing, stronger, and ready to begin a new chapter in her life.