Nikki Garcia has stepped back into the public eye, just days after her husband, Artem Chigvintsev, was arrested on charges of domestic violence. On September 2, the 40-year-old co-hosted Netflix’s live event “Chestnut vs. Kobayashi: Unfinished Beef” alongside comedian Rob Riggle, marking her first public appearance since the arrest.
Dressed in a striking red pantsuit paired with a matching vest, Nikki was all smiles as she addressed the audience. “Thank you everyone, I’m so happy to be here,” she said during the event, even exchanging a sweet moment with a fan in the crowd, adding, “I love you, too.”
Nikki had first announced her involvement in the Netflix special on August 23, almost a week before Artem’s arrest. At the time, she expressed her excitement on Instagram, writing, “This is going to be EPIC!!” However, just six days later, on August 29, Artem—whom Nikki married in 2022 and with whom she shares a 4-year-old son, Matteo—was arrested in Napa, California. He was charged under California Penal Code Section 273.5 (a)PC, which pertains to acts of violence against a spouse or cohabitant. Artem was later released on $25,000 bail.
Following the arrest, Nikki’s representative issued a brief statement on August 30, asking for privacy during this challenging time. “This is a private matter and Nikki asks for privacy for her and her family at this time,” the rep stated.
As details of the incident surfaced, it was revealed that Artem had called 911 for medical assistance, reportedly after an argument with Nikki. According to a radio dispatch call obtained by TMZ, Artem claimed that Nikki had allegedly thrown shoes at him during the altercation. “Initially came in as requesting medical,” the dispatcher is heard saying in the audio recording, “but now he is stating he got into an argument with his wife and his wife threw shoes at R.P. [reporting party].” The dispatcher also noted an “active 415″—a code for a “suspected disturbing of the peace”—in the background of the call, confirming that medical assistance was dispatched. Although Artem allegedly attempted to cancel the paramedics, police arrived at the scene an hour later, leading to his arrest.
A spokesperson from the Napa County Sheriff’s Department commented on the arrest, stating, “When someone is charged with felony domestic violence, usually this means there is a visible injury or credible eyewitness. Our deputies felt comfortable arresting him on felony domestic violence charges.”
As for Nikki, she has remained silent on the state of her relationship with Artem since the incident. However, she was spotted without her wedding ring while boarding a private plane out of Oakland, California, on August 31, fueling speculation about the couple’s future.
Also Read: Lady Gaga And Michael Polansky Turn Heads At Venice Film Festival With
