Ricky Martin denies allegations he's had an intimate relationship with his nephew

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By stefan armitage

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Ricky Martin has denied the "disgusting" allegations reportedly made against him by his 21-year-old nephew.

As reported by PEOPLE, the domestic violence charges filed by the singer's nephew mean Martin could face 50 years in prison.

But now, Martin's lawyer has responded to the allegations, telling PEOPLE: "Unfortunately, the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges. Ricky Martin has, of course, never been — and would never be — involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew."

Attorney Marty Singer added: "The idea is not only untrue, it is disgusting. 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."

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Credit: Doug Peters / Alamy

Per The New York Post, a judge in Puerto Rico issued a "domestic violence-related" restraining order against the 50-year-old Puerto Rican hitmaker. The judge's decision came on July 2 after a complaint was made under Law 54, known as the Domestic Abuse Prevention and Intervention Act.

Spanish publication Marca reports that although the complaint was filed anonymously, Martin’s brother, Eric Martin, claimed that the allegations were made by the singer's nephew.

Puerto Rico newspaper El Vocero reports that the order claims Martin dated the alleged victim for seven months, but despite breaking up, Martin is accused of loitering outside of the petitioner’s home. "The petitioner fears for his safety," the newspaper added.

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Martin and his husband, Jwan Yosef. Credit: ZUMA Press, Inc. / Alamy

When the complaint was filed, representatives for the singer told PEOPLE: "We are very confident that when the true facts come out in this matter our client Ricky Martin will be fully vindicated."

Police spokesman Axel Valencia told the AP that the judge's order prevents Martin from contacting the alleged victim.

Tweeting to his fans, Martin denied any allegations made against him in the complaint, writing: "The protection order entered against me is based on completely false allegations, so I will respond through the judicial process with the facts and the dignity that characterize 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 receive them with all my heart."

Legal proceedings are reportedly set to commence on July 21.

Martin and is currently married to Jwan Yosef, with the singer and the artist marrying back in 2017.

Featured image credit: AFF / Alamy