Worrying news for Mariah Carey’s family following arrest in New York

According to reports emerging Stateside, Mariah Carey's sister has been arrested for prostitution in New York.

Alison A Carey, who has been estranged from the Hero singer for a number of years, was the subject of a sting operation after police investigated allegations that the 55-year-old had been prostituting herself out of a Saugerties hotel.

According to Saugerties Police Chief Joseph Sinagra, Alison identified herself as the sister of the award-winning performer – a claim which was confirmed after authorities investigated Carey's background.

It has been established that Alison uses lyrics from her sister's smash-hit songs in her online ads – postings which helped police track down Mariah's sister over the weekend.

Authorities have warned anyone who believes they may have a sexual encounter with Alison to seek medical attention.

Mariah's sister, who is due in Saugerties Town Court tomorrow, was sent to Ulster County Jail in lieu of $1,000 bail.