Nikki Garcia Files for Divorce From Artem Chigvintsev After His Domestic Violence Arrest

Nikki Garcia and Artem Chigvintsev are parting ways.  

Two weeks after the Dancing with the Stars pro was arrested for domestic violence, Nikki has filed for divorce, TMZ, citing online records, reported Sept. 11  

The news does not come as a total surprise, as Nikki was seen without her wedding ring on two occasions following her now-estranged husband’s Aug. 29 arrest: first while boarding a private plane out of California two days later, and while co-hosting Netflix’s “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef” Sept. 2. 

Similarly, outlets began reporting that the 40-year-old—who shares 4-year-old son Matteo with Artem— was looking into divorce lawyers on Sept. 3.

When reached by E! News for comment about Artem’s arrest and the divorce lawyer rumors, Nikki’s rep noted on both occasions, “This is a private matter, and Nikki asks for privacy for her and her family at this time.” 

The news of Nikki’s divorce comes two weeks after Artem was arrested in Napa, California, and charged with California penal code section 273.5 (a)PC, which is related to acts of violence against a spouse or other cohabitant. He was later released on $25,000 bail.

On the same day of his arrest, additional details came to light surrounding the incident.  

According to a radio dispatch call obtained by TMZ Aug. 30, Artem called 911 for medical assistance and told dispatchers that Nikki had allegedly thrown shoes at him.   

"Initially came in as requesting medical," the dispatcher said in the audio recording, per the outlet, "but now he is stating he got into an argument with his wife and his wife threw shoes at R.P. [reporting party]."  

The call noted there was an “active 415,” which is code for a “suspected disturbing of the peace,” the dispatcher went on to confirm that medical assistance was on the way, adding, "There is a child on scene."

But, according to the outlet, while Artem reportedly tried to call off the paramedics, police arrived at the scene an hour later and the 42-year-old was arrested shortly thereafter.  

On why Artem was arrested, Napa County Sheriff's Department Public Information Officer said in a statement to E! News at the time, "When someone is charged with felony domestic violence, usually this means there is a visible injury or credible eye witness. Our deputies felt comfortable arresting him on felony domestic violence charges."  

And while Nikki has remained predominantly silent on the family matter, during her appearance on the live Netflix event, she did note, “Thank you everyone, I’m so happy to be here,” adding to a fan in the audience, “I love you, too.”

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