For the first time since his arrest, Artem Chigvintsev is speaking out. On August 29, the dancer was booked into Napa County Jail on a felony domestic violence charge. However, after weeks of thorough investigation, the charges were dropped. Now, the DWTS alum is telling his side of the story.
In a series of statements shared on his Instagram story, the Russian native expressed gratitude that he is off the hook. “I am incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against me have been dropped,” he began. “This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed.” Chigvintsev then spoke about his ongoing divorce from Nikki Garcia. Garcia filed to end things earlier this month, citing the day of his arrest as their date of separation.
“My focus has always been and will always be, our son Matteo. He is my world and being his father is the greatest blessing in my life. All along, my main concern has been for him.”
The 42-year-old vowed to continue providing for his son, stating that “securing an equal custody arrangement” would make that possible. He further appreciated his friends, family, and legal team, saying he was “thankful to everyone who believed me and saw the truth for what it was.” Concluding the statement, Chgvintsev wrote, “I look forward to moving past this chapter and focusing on what truly matters.”
Artem Chigvintsev Detailed DV Incident with Nikki Garcia in 911 Call
Although Chigvintsev hasn’t shared more details on the “truth,” a 911 call from the fateful day might shed more light on what happened. According to a transcript of the call, the SYTYCD alum initially placed the 911 call, seeking medical assistance for the victim. However, he suddenly changed his mind, calling off the paramedics and telling the dispatcher his wife attacked him.
“Initially came in as requesting medical, but now he is stating he got into an argument with his wife and his wife threw shoes at rp [reporting party].”
The transcript continued, “There is a child on scene. Medical en route. Thereโs an active 415 [disturbing the peace] in the background responsible.” Due to protocol, the police still showed up at the scene, where they saw visible injuries and arrested Chigvintsev. However, the Napa County District Attorneyโs Office announced on Tuesday that evidence presented wasn’t enough to charge the dancer.
