A day after news broke that Artyom Chigvintsev will not face criminal charges stemming from his recent arrest, a former “DWTS” cast member has broken his silence!
In a statement E! News“I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped. It has been an extremely difficult time for me and I am grateful that the truth has come out,” Chigvintsev said.
As his divorce from Nikki Garcia progresses, Artem is focusing on his 4-year-old son, Matteo.
“He is my world and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life. Throughout this time, my primary focus has been him, and I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support and care he needs as we move forward. I hope that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move forward,” Chigvintsev said.
Nikki has asked for full custody of Matteo and visitation rights with Artem, while Artem is seeking joint custody.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my family, friends and legal team who have supported me during this difficult time,” Artyom continued. “Your support has been invaluable and I would like to thank everyone who believed in me and helped me find out the truth.”
Chigvintsev concluded his lengthy statement with the following words: “I look forward to moving beyond this chapter and focusing on what really matters: continuing to be the best father I can.”
According to court records from August, Chigvintsev was charged under California Penal Code 273.5(a), which includes bodily injury to a spouse.
The “Dancing with the Stars” pro was released from jail after posting bail.
Artyom Chigvintsev will not be charged with domestic violence after ‘thorough investigation’
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“We take these arrests seriously and are staunchly opposed to domestic violence, but we have an ethical obligation to only file charges when supported by the evidence,” Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley said in a press release Tuesday.
Haley added, “We are required to prove all criminal charges ‘beyond a reasonable doubt,’ the highest standard in the American criminal justice system. When the available evidence falls short of this level of proof, we cannot ethically bring charges.”
Haley said the decision not to file criminal charges was made after an “exhaustive review” and “evaluation of the evidence.”
