Artem Chigvintsev Responds After Nikki Garcia Says He Attacked Her

As a long-time fan of “Dancing with the Stars,” I was saddened to hear about the arrest of one of its beloved professionals, Artem Chigvintsev. Having grown up with him on the show and even sharing a living space at some point, it’s heartbreaking for me to see someone I know go through such a difficult time. The news came as a complete shock, not just because he was family in the “DWTS” community but also due to his generally positive persona off-screen.

Artem Chigvintsev is opening up about his perspective on his breakup with Nikki Garcia and the potential legal issues they might face in the future.

A former contestant on “Dancing with the Stars,” who was arrested in August on suspicion of a felony related to domestic violence, has rejected Nikki’s more recent allegations that he assaulted her, as stated in her request for a restraining order.

According to documents filed by Nikki (obtained by TopMob News), she claimed a dispute happened during breakfast involving her 4-year-old son, Matteo, on August 29th.

Artem prepared an English muffin for Matteo, as mentioned in the records. I requested Artem to make the English muffin a bit crispier since that’s what Matteo likes. Instead of complying or even considering my suggestion, Artem started shouting at me. He accused me of making Matteo a fussy eater and wouldn’t let me respond; he spoke so loudly that I couldn’t get a word in edgewise.

As stated by Nikki herself, she tried to diffuse the situation by going to retrieve Matteo’s belongings from the car after deciding to leave.

She collected Matteo’s school items and, on my way towards the front door, I overheard Artem murmur something about ‘mom’ to Matteo quietly. She explained this incident further, saying she chose to disregard it as her main concern was getting Matteo out of the house until Artem calmed down. In an attempt to expedite this process, she picked up Matteo’s shoes and instructed him to put them on.

According to Nikki, “Artem started marching towards her while shouting for me to ‘keep quiet’ and saying he ‘had already instructed Matteo to put on his shoes.’ That morning, Artem’s yelling left me feeling overpowered; in a moment of impulse, I tossed Matteo’s size 7 toddler shoes at Artem. The shoes hit Artem’s leg. I admit that it was inappropriate for me to throw the shoes, but given all the events that unfolded that morning, I had a brief loss of reason. I want to clarify that Matteo’s shoes are very light and could not have caused any harm to Artem.

According to what was stated, Artem grew extremely angry at that moment, seized Matteo, and hurriedly went up the stairs together with him.

On September 11th, Nikki (who initiated a divorce) expressed fear for her son’s safety and chased after them. Upon reaching the upstairs, she attempted to open Matteo’s shut bedroom door. However, according to the documents, Artem was attempting to keep the door closed at that moment.

She said in her statement, “I managed to squeeze the door open enough so that only my arm fit through. Peering through this opening, I could make out Matteo lying on his bed, looking terrified with wide-open eyes and an agape mouth. As soon as my arm entered the door, Artem swung it open and pinned me down to the ground outside Matteo’s room. He kept me there on the floor for what felt like 20 to 30 seconds, holding onto my arms.

After that, Artem rose and returned to Matteo’s chamber, closing the door behind him. Nikki went on, “I considered phoning the authorities, yet my phone was below, and I was apprehensive about leaving Matteo with Artem alone.

After another attempt to get into Matteo’s room, Nikki alleged, another struggle ensued.

In my account, I managed to keep my balance at first, as I shared. However, Artem shoved me from the hallway into our bedroom, making it a struggle for me to stay upright. Eventually, Artem overpowered me, pushing me to the floor in the bathroom attached to our room. At that point, Artem’s hands were on my chest close to my sternum, applying pressure that left me feeling like I was suffocating. Desperate for relief, I clawed at his neck – the only reachable part – trying to dislodge him from me. Despite my efforts, it seemed impossible to shake him off. It appeared as though Artem noticed the fear in my eyes, as he suddenly regained composure and fled down the stairs.

When the police arrived, per Nikki’s filing, Matteo told authorities, “Daddy hurt my hand.”

And Nikki alleged this wasn’t the first time Artem had displayed aggressive behavior towards her.

In her statement, she asserted that he had been verbally aggressive towards her several times, and during a distinct occurrence in 2023, he forcefully grabbed her near the waist, according to her claim, in an attempt to prevent her from reaching his son.

As reported by a former student of Total Bellas, who was once known as Nikki Bella, Artem appeared to grow increasingly irritable upon discovering he wouldn’t be part of Dancing With the Stars for season 33, which is currently underway. Nikki stated that his behavior changed dramatically, with him shouting and snapping at her.

Instead of arguing with her claims, Artem counters them in his response documents acquired by TMZ. The choreographer asserts that Nikki was the instigator during their fight on August 29th, presenting photos (published by the outlet) of injuries to his neck, elbow, and hand, which he attributes to his ex.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase it like this: In an attempt to safeguard my young charge, Matteo, I found myself in a challenging situation with Nikki. I assert that Nikki forcefully entered the room where Matteo and I were, instigating a confrontation that resulted in us tumbling to the floor, wrestling due to her aggressive actions towards me.

Later on, Artem mentioned in his report that it was him who dialed 9-1-1. He asserted that Nikki had said, “Artem, do you comprehend the consequences of what you’ve done now? You’ve effectively ended my career, and you’re well aware of it.

TopMob News reached out to a rep for Artem for comment but has not heard back.

Following Artem’s arrest on August 29, 2024, Nikki chose to submit a Temporary Domestic Violence Protection Order to ensure safety for herself and her child, as reported by her representative to TopMob News on October 4. Even though Nikki asked the Napa District Attorney not to press charges against Artem to avoid jail time, it’s crucial that he faces consequences for his actions. Above all, Nikki has always prioritized the welfare of her son.

The statement continued, “She is thankful for all of the love and support she has received and continues to ask for privacy for her and her family during this difficult time.”

In an unexpected turn of events, I found myself in Napa’s custody on August 29, charged with domestic violence. Soon after, I was granted bail set at $25,000. However, just under a month later, the prosecutors decided not to press charges against me. This decision was based on the insufficient evidence that failed to meet the standard of “beyond a reasonable doubt.” It’s important to note that the identity of the alleged victim in this case has remained confidential.

After the dismissal of the charges, I find myself feeling both relieved and grateful that this ordeal is finally behind me. In a September 25th statement to TopMob News, I expressed my sentiments by saying, “This has been an incredibly challenging period in my life. I am deeply thankful that the truth has triumphed.

After the dismissal of the charges, Artem felt both relieved and thankful that the issue was finally settled.

In a September 25 statement to TopMob News, he expressed that this period has been incredibly challenging for him. He is grateful that the truth ultimately emerged victorious.

Additionally, he clarified that his primary priority lies in caring for his son Matteo. He expressed enthusiasm about leaving this phase behind and dedicating himself wholeheartedly to being the finest father possible.

And Nikki also shared a message after the dancer’s arrest.

In a statement issued on August 30th, her representative asked for understanding and respect for Nikki’s personal situation, indicating that she prefers to keep this matter private and asks for space for herself and her family during this period.

Read on for a full breakdown of Artem’s domestic violence arrest.

On August 29th, just before 10 a.m., Artem Chigvintsev was taken into custody. This was confirmed by Henry Wofford, the Public Information Officer of the Napa County Sheriff’s Office, to TopMob News.

On August 29th, at exactly 2:18 PM, the court granted bail for the dance professional, who was then released from custody. This information was verified by Wofford and reported to TopMob News. As of now, a court date has not been set.

In response to inquiries by NBC News, Wofford confirmed that Chigvintsev was taken into custody in Yountville, California, without disclosing the specific location due to a request for privacy from the alleged victim. As a consequence of this request, the Sheriff is also withholding the name, gender, age, and relationship of the alleged victim to Chigvintsev. However, Wofford did provide some details regarding the arrest.

According to audio obtained by TMZ on August 30th, it appears that Chigvintsev initially contacted 911 asking for medical assistance following an altercation where shoes were reportedly thrown at him. However, the 42-year-old later informed the dispatcher that medical attention was no longer required. Nevertheless, Wofford explained to Page Six that in cases of domestic violence, if someone changes their mind and says they don’t need help, authorities still conduct a welfare check. They won’t simply stop what they’re doing.

As of Aug. 30, Chigvintsev has yet to speak publicly on the arrest or 911 call. TopMob News has reached out to his rep for comment but has yet to hear back.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I find myself reflecting on recent events concerning the dance world. Just weeks before the grand debut of Dancing With the Stars’ season 33, news broke about the arrest of a familiar face – a Mirrorball trophy winner who’s graced the competition series an impressive twelve times. Interestingly, it was reported by both Page Six and Variety that this past champion wasn’t slated to participate in this year’s cast.

A representative for Nikki Garcia, who partnered with Artem Chigvintsev during season 25 of Dancing With the Stars in 2017, commented on his arrest, stating that it is a personal matter and asking for privacy for her and her family at this time. The arrest occurred three days after Garcia and Chigvintsev, who have a 4-year-old son named Matteo, celebrated their second wedding anniversary. On Instagram, Chigvintsev expressed his love for Garcia on the occasion of their anniversary, while she shared a throwback video of their Parisian wedding in 2022 and quoted lyrics from Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” saying that the song encapsulates their love story.

After learning about Chigvintsev’s arrest, being someone who once shared a life with him and grew up alongside, I, Cheryl Burke, couldn’t help but share my stunned reaction. On my podcast “Sex, Lies and Spray Tans,” I expressed that I was in complete shock over the news. Recorded on August 29th, I conveyed my heartfelt sentiments to everyone involved, stating that it’s particularly challenging for me because he was like family. All I can say here is that I hope everyone is okay. In a TikTok clip from the podcast episode, I also provided useful resources for those affected.

On September 24, 2024, Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley announced that her team would not pursue charges against Chigvintsev, after conducting a comprehensive examination of the criminal investigation and meticulously assessing the evidence presented to their office.

If you’re going through domestic violence, remember there is support for you: Try reaching out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text START to 88788, or visit their website at https://www.thehotline.org/ for assistance.

On September 25, 2024, Chigvintsev expressed feelings of immense relief and gratitude in a statement to TopMob News, as the domestic violence charge against him had been dismissed.

He confided, “These past times have been incredibly tough for me,” but “I’m grateful that the truth eventually triumphed.

In my own words as a lifestyle expert, I can share that the dancer remains optimistic about achieving a fair shared parenting agreement with Garcia, who has filed for both legal and physical sole custody of our son Matteo in the recent divorce proceedings we initiated on September 11th.

Chigvintsev expressed eagerness about leaving that phase behind and concentrating more on what really counts – becoming the finest dad possible.

In response to allegations made public by TMZ, Garcia successfully requested a protective order from her former partner Chigvintsev. She claimed in her petition that on multiple occasions, he had tackled her to the ground, an incident which occurred with their child nearby.

Following the incident resulting in Artem’s arrest on August 29, 2024, Nikki has opted to submit a Temporary Domestic Violence Protection Order. This is to ensure safety for herself and her child. Despite Nikki asking that the Napa District Attorney refrain from pressing charges against Artem to prevent jail time, it’s crucial that he still faces accountability for his actions. The wellbeing and protection of Nikki and her son are paramount.

2024-10-05 00:19

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