The head of the New York City Ballet has announced his retirement after being hit by a string of allegations of sexual harassment and physical and verbal abuse.

Peter Martins, who led the company for three decades, had been on leave from the company and its School of American Ballet since last month after the allegations came to light.

“I have denied, and continue to deny, that I have engaged in any such misconduct,” he wrote to the board announcing his retirement, according to the New York Times.

Martins, 71, was accused by former performers who claimed he bullied them and had sexual relationships with several dancers. The allegations first emerged with an anonymous letter that detailed claims of sexual harassment.

He has denied any misconduct.

“I co-operated fully in the investigation and understand it will be completed shortly,” he said in his letter. “I believe its findings would have vindicated me.”