The 'Livin' la Vida Loca' hitmaker, who was allegedly involved in a domestic violence incident, is accused of having a romantic relationship with his nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez.

• Jul 16, 2022

AceShowbiz - Ricky Martin spoke out about allegations that he was involved in an incest relationship with his nephew, Dennis Yadiel Sanchez. In a new statement, the 50-year-old singer vehemently denied the accusations, calling it "disgusting" and "untrue."

The singer's lawyer, Marty Singer, claimed in a statement, "Unfortunately the person who made this claim is struggling with deep mental health challenges." Marty went on to say, "Ricky Martin has, of course, never been -- and would never be -- involved in any kind of sexual or romantic relationship with his nephew."

"The idea is not only untrue, it is disgusting," he stressed. "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."

Also defending Ricky was the star's brother Eric Martin. Speaking with The Latin Post, he said that Dennis suffers "mental problems." Of the 21-year-old, who is the son of Ricky's stepsister, Eric added that he was "very sure that his young relative was not telling the truth."

Puerto Rican law takes allegations of incest very seriously. Should the alleged romance between Ricky and his nephew be confirmed, the singer could face up to half a century in prison.

Earlier this month, Ricky was hit with a restraining order stemming from a domestic violence incident in Puerto Rico. His victim's identity had been withheld until Spanish news outlet Marca reported on Friday, July 15 that the alleged victim is Dennis. Ricky was accused of "exercising physical and psychological attacks" on Dennis during their seven-month relationship, which ended about two months ago.

A rep for Ricky previously denied the abuse allegations, noting that the claims were completely false and fabricated." The singer himself addressed the accusations in a Twitter post on July 3, 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," he went on stating. "I am grateful for the countless messages of solidarity, and I receive them with all my heart."

The "Livin' la Vida Loca" hitmaker is expected to appear in Puerto Rican court on July 21 for his trial.