In a statement, 'Dancing with the Stars' alum Artem Chigvintsev expressed relief and gratitude over withdrawn charges, emphasizing his commitment to his son and the hope for equal custody.
- September 26, 2024
AceShowbiz - "Dancing With the Stars" pro dancer Artem Chigvintsev has spoken out for the first time on Wednesday, September 25 regarding domestic violence charges that were subsequently dropped.
"I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped," the 42-year-old dancer said in a statement to E! News. "This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed."
Chigvintsev stated that his primary concern has been his 4-year-old son, Matteo, with his estranged wife Nikki Garcia. "He is my world, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life," he said. "All along, my main concern has been for him. I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward."
He expressed hope that securing equal custody would aid in their progress. Chigvintsev also expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and legal team for their support and belief in him. He is looking forward to putting this chapter behind him and focusing on what matters most -continuing to be the best father he can be.
On August 29, Chigvintsev was arrested in Napa, Calif., following a domestic violence incident. Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley announced on September 24 that charges would not be filed after a thorough review of the evidence. "While we take every arrest seriously and stand firmly against domestic violence, we have an ethical obligation to only file charges when supported by the evidence," Haley stated.
Napa Valley Sheriff PIO Henry Wofford noted that authorities responded to a call and arrested Chigvintsev without incident. However, law enforcement has not confirmed the victim's identity due to a request for confidentiality.
Following the arrest, Nikki Garcia, Chigvintsev's estranged wife, filed for divorce on September 11, requesting full custody of Matteo. Chigvintsev responded, seeking joint custody.
The couple met on Season 25 of "DWTS" in 2019 and married in August 2022. Chigvintsev was previously accused of abusing a dance partner in the past, which he denied.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
