Artem Chigvintsev has been spared the specter of criminal prosecution following his arrest on suspicion of domestic violence. On September 24th, Tuesday, Napa County's District Attorney, Allison Haley, issued a statement, revealing that her office had made the conscientious decision to decline pressing criminal charges against the 42-year-old former 'Dancing with the Stars' star, following his August detention.
In a meticulously crafted press release, Haley elaborated that the conclusion was reached subsequent to a "rigorous examination of the criminal investigation" and the evidence presented in the case. "While we view every arrest with gravity and stand unwaveringly opposed to domestic violence, we are ethically bound to file charges solely when supported by incontrovertible evidence," she emphasized. "Our obligation is to prove every criminal allegation 'beyond a reasonable doubt,' the paramount standard in American criminal justice. If the existing evidence falls short of this threshold, we cannot, in good conscience, proceed with charges."
Despite the DA's office refraining from pursuing criminal action against Chigvintsev, Haley noted that the case remains open to reevaluation should new incidents, facts, or previously unknown evidence surface.
On August 29th, amidst the aftermath of celebrating their second wedding anniversary, Chigvintsev found himself in handcuffs, booked on charges of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse in Napa Valley, California, just shy of 10 a.m. The Russian dancer was promptly released after posting a $25,000 bond the same day.
Although Garcia's identity as the alleged victim was never officially confirmed, during a 9-1-1 call made on the day of his arrest, Chigvintsev alleged that the former 'Total Divas' star hurled shoes at him and requested medical aid. A representative for Garcia issued a statement to PEOPLE, urging privacy for her and her family during this private matter.
Just two weeks after his arrest, Garcia initiated divorce proceedings, citing nearly two years of marriage, on September 11th. In her divorce petition, obtained by PEOPLE, the 40-year-old WWE alum sought sole legal and physical custody of their son, Matteo, while granting Chigvintsev visitation rights. Citing "irreconcilable differences," Garcia also requested the termination of spousal support for both parties. In response, Chigvintsev expressed his desire for joint custody, along with a claim for spousal support, attorney's fees, and associated costs.
Their romance blossomed in 2017 when they were paired on season 25 of 'Dancing with the Stars,' narrowly missing out on the top five. They welcomed Matteo into their lives in July 2020 and exchanged vows in January 2023. "It's something I've dreamed of my entire life," Garcia had once confided to PEOPLE, expressing her profound longing for a family life filled with the joys of motherhood and nurturing a child.
