Artem Chigvintsev recently spoke out publicly for the first time regarding both the domestic violence charges filed against him and his ongoing divorce from wife Nikki Garcia.
On September 25, 2024, the dancer exclusively released a statement to E! News. After nearly a month of silence, Artem opened up about the legal challenges he had been facing and revealed the latest developments in the case.
In a surprising turn of events, Artem shared that the domestic violence charges had been dropped by his ex-wife. Expressing his relief, he stated,
“I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped… This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed”.
The Dancing With the Stars alum emphasized that his top priority during the divorce proceedings is his infant son, Matteo, whom he shares with Nikki.
When discussing the divorce, Artem expressed that a joint custody arrangement with the former WWE champion would be key to ensuring a smooth process between them. He stated,
“My focus has always been and will always be [Matteo]. I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward. I am hopeful that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move on… I look forward to moving past this chapter and focusing on what truly matters…”
Artem’s Lawyer Reveals Why The Domestic Violence Charges Were Dropped
Following the release of Chigvintsev’s statement, his lawyer, Ilona Antonyan, also addressed the dropped charges. In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE magazine, she revealed the real reason behind Artem’s release from the allegations. She shared,
“My understanding of the investigated facts surrounding the incident have led me to conclude from the beginning that Artem was not the primary aggressor. I believe that to be true… He was protecting himself and Matteo”.
Moreover, his legal representative emphasized their intention to pursue a 50-50 joint custody arrangement with Nikki as they move forward with the divorce negotiations.
On August 29, 2024, Artem was arrested on accusations of domestic violence against Nikki. He was detained for several hours before being released on bail. This incident ultimately led Garcia to file for divorce on September 13, 2024.
A few days after the divorce filing, Artem’s lawyer revealed to PEOPLE magazine that the couple was seeking a mutually accepted divorce settlement.
However, in her legal documents, Nikki requested sole physical custody of their son, which has left the former couple’s divorce still unfinalized.
Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev first started dating in January 2019. In July 2020, the couple welcomed their son, Matteo, and after more than three years of dating, they tied the knot in August 2022.
Fans Remain Skeptical Of Artem Chigvintsev And Criticize His Latest Statement
The online community criticized the professional dancer’s remarks regarding his release from the domestic violence charges. Many netizens took to social media to express their discontent. They wrote,
“I’m done with this man .not even an apology to his wife . Just bc the charges got dropped doesn’t mean he’s innocent!”
“What ‘truth’? Charges being dropped doesn’t mean a DV incident didn’t happen”.
“No thanks. Not interested in excuses”.
Despite the dropped charges, fans remain skeptical of Artem Chigvintsev’s actions and statements. Only time will tell how the couple’s divorce will unfold, but for now, he faces an uphill battle to regain the public’s trust.