Trigger Warning: This article contains discussions of alleged domestic violence in which a child was present.
On August 29, Dancing with the Stars professional dancer Artem Chigvintsev was arrested for alleged domestic violence in Napa, California.
When Artem was charged with felony domestic assault, those close to the couple called the incident “shocking but not shocking.”
Among their friends and family, it’s long been an open secret that Artem and wife Nikki Garcia’s marriage was troubled. Friends close to the couple describe their relationship as “volatile.”
Artem called 911
TMZ was the first to break the news of Artem’s arrest for “corporal injury to a spouse or cohabitant.” A radio dispatch call revealed Artem reporting that his former WWE wrestler wife threw a pair of shoes at him during an argument.
Initially, Artem dialed 911 and requested medical help, only to change his mind and tell them not to come. But once dispatchers realized there was a child in the house, they sent police out to assess the situation. Artem and Nikki’s son Matteo is four.
Once police arrived and noted the victim’s injuries (“the victim” still hasn’t been identified but is assumed to be Nikki), Artem was arrested. He was booked under California penal code 273.5(a), which “makes it illegal to injure a spouse, cohabitant or fellow parent in an act of domestic violence. This offense is also referred to as domestic abuse, domestic violence, or corporal injury to a spouse.”
Artem’s bail was set at $25,000. He posted bail later that same day and was released from Napa County jail.
Verbal arguments allegedly weren’t unusual for Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev’s marriage
Sources close to the couple said they were only aware of past verbal altercations between the pair. Apparently, the couple is known to have frequent and consistent arguments involving control and belittlement. But no one had heard of any previous physical fights.
Back in 2021, Nikki admitted that their relationship needed work, especially in the area of communication. She and Artem actually went to couples therapy to work on the way he spoke to her. Sadly, Artem and Nikki celebrated their second wedding anniversary only two days before the arrest.
TMZ also reported that Artem isn’t staying at their Napa Valley home at the moment. Nikki remains at the house with their son.
Dancing with the Stars Season 33 premieres on September 17 at 8/7c on ABC.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or chat at thehotline.org.
TELL US – DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF SUPPORT FOR NIKKI AND HER FAMILY?
