Ex-Strictly star held on suspicion of domestic violence

Artem Chigvintsev, the former Strictly Come Dancing star, has been detained in the United States on suspicion of domestic violence, according to recent jail records. The 42-year-old Russian professional dancer was taken into custody at Napa County Jail in California early Thursday morning.

Chigvintsev, known for his success on the UK dance show, joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and clinched victory that year alongside his celebrity partner Kara Tointon. Since 2014, he has been a familiar face on “Dancing With The Stars,” the American counterpart of the popular dance series.

The arrest stems from allegations under section 273.5(a) of the California Penal Code, which pertains to “corporal injury to a spouse.” This legal provision addresses instances where a person inflicts traumatic injury on a current or former spouse, cohabitant, or fellow parent in a domestic violence context. Depending on the severity of the case, this offense can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Felony charges could result in a maximum prison sentence of four years.

Following his arrest, Chigvintsev posted a $25,000 (approximately £19,000) bond and was released later in the afternoon. Details surrounding the incident, including the involvement of Chigvintsev’s current spouse, remain unclear at this time.

Chigvintsev’s wife is Nikki Bella, a prominent figure in the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) world, whom he met while both were contestants on “Dancing With The Stars” in 2017. Bella, now known as Nikki Garcia following her departure from wrestling, and Chigvintsev celebrated their second wedding anniversary earlier this year. The couple has a young son together.

As the situation develops, further information will be necessary to fully understand the circumstances and the potential implications for Chigvintsev’s personal and professional life.