The bitter divorce between Denise Richards and her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, has taken a serious turn, evolving into a criminal matter.
According to People, Phypers, 53, was arrested on Friday, October 17, during a recess at a Los Angeles courthouse where Richards was seeking a permanent restraining order against him.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ after his arrest, Aaron Phypers is now facing four felony charges filed by the State of California — two for injuring a spouse and two for attempting to dissuade a witness by force or threat. His bail was set at $200,000, which he posted later that evening before being released from the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station in Malibu.
Prosecutors say the charges stem from incidents that allegedly occurred in 2022. Records indicate three reported assaults took place on January 17 of that year, with a fourth alleged incident on May 3.
In court, Denise Richards testified that she sustained multiple concussions during the marriage. She claimed Phypers once slammed her head against a concrete wall at his Malibu wellness center and, on another occasion, squeezed her head so hard she feared her skull might break. Richards also alleged that he repeatedly threatened to throw her through windows or off balconies, testifying, “He’s almost killed me so many damn times.”
Phypers has denied all allegations of abuse. Earlier this month, he testified that Richards “bruises easily” and maintained that he never caused her harm. He also disputed her concussion claims, saying he never used equipment from his wellness center to examine her, despite Richards’ assertion that he checked her after she complained of headaches and nausea.
Phypers’ attorney, Michael Finley, argued that the criminal charges mirror claims already being addressed in the couple’s ongoing divorce case. “We expect it to also be proven false and for him to be exonerated,” Finley told People.
The hearing grew tense as both sides presented witnesses. Phypers’ mother testified that she once saw Richards throw a can opener at her son and denied any abuse took place. Meanwhile, Richards’ team brought forward a makeup artist and a cousin who both testified to witnessing violent behavior.
The couple, who married in 2018, separated earlier this year when Phypers filed for divorce in July. Richards, 54, was granted a temporary restraining order, which has since been extended through November 7 as the legal battle continues.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for support.
