Ricky Martin denies ‘disgusting’ domestic violence and incest allegations

'The protection order entered against me is based on completely false allegations' the star said

Singer Ricky Martin has publicly denied domestic violence allegations recently levelled against him, labelling them "completely false". According to a Spanish outlet Marca, Martin is alleged to have psychologically and physically attacked his victim across a seven month period - with reports suggesting that the person behind these claims is a 21-year-old member of Martin's own family. According to reports, a restraining order has been issued against the Puerto Rican star. If found guilty, the singer - who's hits include "Livin' La Vida Loca" and "She Bangs" could face up to 50 years behind bars due to Puerto Rico's current incest laws. Taking to Twitter, Martin vehemently denied these allegations, saying that while "it is an ongoing legal matter, I cannot make detailed statements at this time." https://twitter.com/ricky_martin/status/1543764013141614594?s=20&t=uxdxBAJDDVwwVRQ5ycnjWw "The protection order entered against me is based on completely false allegations," said the 50-year-old singer, "so I will respond through the judicial process with the facts and the dignity that characterise me. "Because it is an ongoing legal matter, I cannot make detailed statements at this time. "I am grateful for the countless messages of solidarity, and I received them with all my heart." These sentiments were echoed by the star's lawyer Marty Singer, who spoke to US outlet Deadline. “Unfortunately, the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges,” the lawyer told the outlet on July 15. “Ricky Martin has, of course, never been — and would never be– involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew,” adding that “The idea is not only untrue, it is disgusting.” Singer continued, saying: “We all hope that this man gets the help he so urgently needs... but, most of all, we look forward to this awful case being dismissed as soon as a judge gets to look at the facts.” According to Deadline, a hearing has been set for July 21. Related links:

• Paul Ryder dead: Tributes pour in for Happy Mondays star after he passes away aged 58
• Man cleared of Malcolm X murder sues New York for wrongful conviction
• Brits warned to avoid alcohol this weekend as record breaking heatwave takes hold