Artem Chigvintsev, a professional dancer on “Dancing With the Stars,” recently addressed the domestic violence charges that were brought against him and subsequently dropped. In a statement to E! News, Chigvintsev expressed his relief and gratitude that the charges had been dismissed. He described the experience as extremely difficult but emphasized his focus on his 4-year-old son, Matteo, whom he shares with his estranged wife, Nikki Garcia, also known as Nikki Bella.
Chigvintsev stated, “He is my world, and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life.” Throughout the ordeal, his main concern has been for his son, and he is committed to providing the love, support, and care that Matteo needs as they move forward. Chigvintsev expressed hope that securing an equal custody arrangement will help them both move on from the situation.
The dancer expressed his deepest gratitude to his family, friends, and legal team for standing by him during this challenging time. Their support has been invaluable, and he is thankful to everyone who believed in him and saw the truth. Chigvintsev looks forward to closing this chapter and focusing on being the best father he can be to Matteo.
Chigvintsev was arrested at his home in Napa, California, on August 29 after authorities responded to a call about a domestic violence incident. While the request for emergency services was canceled before their arrival, authorities conducted a wellness check and found a victim with visible injuries who requested total confidentiality. Chigvintsev was subsequently arrested and charged with corporal injury to a cohabitant or spouse. He was released on bail later that day.
Despite the incident, the victim’s identity was not released, and it remains unconfirmed whether Garcia was involved. However, a 911 call indicated that a violent argument had taken place moments before the authorities arrived and that Matteo was present during the altercation. Garcia filed for divorce from Chigvintsev on September 11, citing the incident as the date of separation and requesting full custody of Matteo.
On September 24, the Napa County District Attorney’s Office announced that Chigvintsev would not be charged after carefully evaluating the evidence. District Attorney Allison Haley stated that while they take every arrest seriously and stand against domestic violence, they have an ethical obligation to only file charges when supported by evidence beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence does not meet this standard, they cannot ethically pursue charges.
Chigvintsev was released from prison four hours after his arrest, and the couple, who married in August 2022, met on Season 25 of “Dancing With the Stars” in 2019. Just days before the incident, they celebrated their second wedding anniversary with social media posts dedicated to each other. Chigvintsev, who did not return for Season 33 of the show, had previously denied allegations of abuse from a dance partner.
In conclusion, Chigvintsev expressed his gratitude for the support he received during this challenging time and his commitment to focusing on being the best father he can be to Matteo. The domestic violence charges being dropped have allowed him to move forward and prioritize his son’s well-being.
