'Dancing With the Stars' Pro Artem Chigvintsev Arrested on Felony Domestic Violence Charge in California
Artem Chigvintsev, a professional dancer known for his appearances on "Dancing With the Stars," was arrested on Thursday in Napa County, California, on a felony domestic violence charge. The Napa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies responded to a domestic violence call in Yountville. Chigvintsev, 42, who is married to Nikki Garcia (formerly Nikki Bella), was subsequently taken into custody.
In California, felony domestic violence is a serious charge governed by several sections of the California Penal Code, primarily under Penal Code § 273.5. This statute specifically addresses domestic violence resulting in "corporal injury," meaning that the victim sustained a visible injury, whether minor or serious.
According to Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Henry Wofford, Chigvintsev was cooperative during the arrest and was charged with felony domestic violence, a serious offense that typically requires either a credible witness or physical evidence, such as visible injuries, to substantiate the charge.
Details of the incident remain undisclosed due to privacy protections for victims of domestic violence. Authorities have not released the name, gender, or age of the victim, nor the specific relationship to Chigvintsev. Wofford also mentioned to NBC News that the exact location of the alleged incident is being withheld at the victim's request to ensure their privacy. Wofford emphasized that no further information could be released at this time.
Chigvintsev was released on Thursday afternoon after posting $25,000 bail. Representatives for the dancer did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and it is unclear whether he has retained legal counsel.
