Ex-“Dancing With the Stars” Pro Artem Chigvintsev Arrested for Felony Domestic Violence in Napa, California
Former “Dancing With the Stars” pro Artem Chigvintsev was arrested for felony domestic violence in Napa, California, reportedly following a turbulent relationship with his wife, Nikki Bella. Sources claim that the couple’s marriage has been troubled for years, with friends describing the arrest as both shocking and expected due to the couple’s history of verbal altercations. Past arguments have allegedly centered around issues of control and belittlement, leading to the couple seeking couples’ therapy.
Chigvintsev is not currently living in the couple’s home and their young son is staying with Bella following the arrest. The alleged victim’s identity has been kept confidential, as required by California law in domestic violence cases. Bella broke her silence and asked for privacy for her family, while Chigvintsev’s former co-star Cheryl Burke expressed shock and sadness over the incident.
Chigvintsev had just celebrated his second wedding anniversary with Bella before the arrest, and the decision had already been made to not invite him back for the upcoming season of “DWTS.” Despite a long career on the show, Chigvintsev will not be returning as a dance pro for Season 33. The couple has faced public scrutiny due to the alleged incidents leading up to Chigvintsev’s arrest, shining a spotlight on the issue of domestic violence.
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