Artem Chigvintsev expresses gratitude after arrest, no charges filed
Artem Chigvintsev feels “thankful” that prosecutors have opted not to pursue criminal charges against him after being arrested last month on allegations of felony domestic violence.
The ex-dancer from ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” spoke out about the situation in a statement given to E! News and People magazine on Wednesday.
“I am so relieved and thankful that the domestic violence allegations against me have been dropped. This has been a really tough time for me. I appreciate that the truth has come to light,” he shared with the media outlets. Chigvintsev emphasized that his primary focus remains on his 4-year-old son, Matteo, whom he shares with his wife, Nikki Garcia.
Just weeks after his arrest, Garcia initiated divorce proceedings against Chigvintsev.
“Matteo is my everything, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life,” continued Chigvintsev’s statement. “My main priority has always been him. I am dedicated to giving him all the love, support, and care he needs as we navigate this situation. I am hopeful that an equitable custody arrangement will help us move forward.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my family, friends, and legal team for their unwavering support during this challenging period. Your encouragement has meant the world to me, and I am grateful to everyone who stood by me and recognized the truth,” he concluded. “I am eager to put this chapter behind me and concentrate on what truly matters—being the best father I can be.”
YSL News has reached out to Chigvintsev’s representatives for further comments.
Why the district attorney’s office chose not to file charges against Chigvintsev
Chigvintsev, 42, was taken into custody around 10 a.m. on August 29 and was later booked at Napa County jail. He was held on a $25,000 bail and released after more than three hours. The Napa police and prosecutors have not disclosed the identity of the alleged victim.
“The decision not to file charges against Mr. Chigvintsev was reached after a comprehensive review of the investigation and a careful assessment of the evidence presented to the DA’s Office,” stated Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley in a release from her office on Tuesday. The DA’s office noted it may reconsider the case if new evidence or facts come to light.
“While we take each arrest seriously and firmly oppose domestic violence, we have an ethical duty to only file charges when there is sufficient evidence,” Haley mentioned.
“We must establish any and all criminal charges ‘beyond a reasonable doubt,’ which is the highest burden of proof in the American criminal justice system. If the available evidence does not meet this standard, we cannot ethically proceed with charges.”
Nikki Garcia seeks full custody of their son amid divorce proceedings
Reports from TMZ and People indicate that Garcia filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason, stating that their separation occurred on August 29—the same day as Chigvintsev’s arrest. She has requested both legal and physical custody of their son while allowing for visitation rights for Chigvintsev.
Moreover, the former WWE star has asked the court to deny spousal support for both herself and Chigvintsev.
In his response, dated September 13, Chigvintsev requested joint legal and physical custody of Matteo and has sought spousal support from Garcia, according to E! News and People magazine.
Ilona Antonyan, Chigvintsev’s lawyer, stated to E! and People that her client aims to negotiate a shared 50/50 custody plan. Thankfully, Artem has been able to spend time with Matteo nearly every day since the incident on August 29.
“My understanding of the events surrounding the August 29 incident leads me to believe from the start that Artem was not the primary aggressor,” she added. “I maintain that perspective even if we consider the family court’s standard of proof. He was protecting himself and Matteo.”
YSL News has reached out to representatives for Garcia for further comments.
Chigvintsev, who won Season 29 of “DWTS” alongside Kaitlyn Bristowe in 2020 and placed fourth with Charity Lawson in the most recent season, has participated in the ABC competition show for ten years, barring a break during the 2019 season.
He is not included in the cast for the currently airing Season 33.
If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, The National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org) offers support.
Individuals can seek help confidentially through trained advocates via online chat or phone calls, especially if they believe their online activities are being watched by their abuser. They can reach out at this number: (800-799-7233).