The drama surrounding Artem Chigvintsev just took a wild turn! The 42-year-old “Dancing With the Stars” pro, who can usually be found dazzling on the dance floor, was recently twirling into a bit of trouble. Last month, he found himself doing the cha-cha away from the law in Napa, California—yes, the same place that’s known for wine, not crimes!
It seems Artem had a little too much “red” in his cup during an altercation at his shared love nest with soon-to-be-ex-wife Nikki Garcia. And let’s just say, his mugshot could probably use a few lessons in how to strike a better pose. He was arrested on a felony domestic violence charge, which is as serious as forgetting your dance partner’s name in the middle of a performance!
But wait! Don’t get your jazz hands up just yet. After almost a month of nail-biting suspense and plenty of head-shaking from the Napa County District Attorney’s office, the verdict is in: they won’t be throwing any criminal charges at Artem! Apparently, the DA decided to do a little moonwalk away from the case after a “thorough review of the criminal investigation,” which sounds a lot like “we looked into it, and it’s not our fault if the evidence didn’t show up for rehearsal.”
In a statement that could rival a soap opera monologue, Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley said, “We take every arrest seriously and stand firmly against domestic violence. But we can’t file charges unless we have proof stronger than a triple shot of espresso.” So, they’re leaving the door open for any new “plot twists”—if they stumble upon more evidence, this case might just reappear like a bad dance partner!
Meanwhile, back on the home front, Nikki has taken a cue from the divorce party playlist and filed for divorce after two years of wedded bliss and one adorable four-year-old son, Mateo, who probably just wants everyone to stop arguing and start dancing again.
Artem’s dancing shoes may still be on, but his legal troubles are off the stage—at least for now. Stay tuned for the next episode of “As the Dance Floor Turns!”
