The ongoing divorce battle between Denise Richards and her estranged husband Aaron Phypers has escalated into a criminal case.
According to People, Phypers, 53, was arrested on Friday, October 17, during a break at a Los Angeles courthouse hearing where Richards sought a permanent restraining order against him.
Furthermore, according to court documents obtained by TMZ following the arrest, Phypers is now facing four felony counts 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 the same evening before being released from custody at the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station in Malibu.
The charges stem from incidents prosecutors allege took place in 2022. Records show three alleged assaults occurred on January 17 of that year, while a fourth was reported on May 3.
Richards has testified in court that she suffered multiple concussions during her marriage, claiming that Phypers once slammed her head against a concrete wall at his Malibu wellness center and, on another occasion, squeezed her head so forcefully she believed her skull might fracture. She further alleged he 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 insisted he never harmed her.
He also disputed the concussions, saying he never used equipment from his wellness center to evaluate her injuries, despite Richards’ claim he checked her after she reported headaches and nausea. His attorney, Michael Finley, argued the latest charges mirror accusations already being contested in divorce court. “We expect it to also be proven false and for him to be exonerated,” Finley told People.
The hearing itself was heated. Phypers’ mother took the stand and testified that she once saw Richards throw a can opener at her son, while also denying that any abuse occurred. Richards’ legal team countered with testimony from a makeup artist and a cousin who said they witnessed violent behavior firsthand.
The couple, who wed in 2018, separated earlier this year when Phypers filed for divorce in July. Richards, 54, was granted a temporary restraining order, now extended until November 7, as the legal fight 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.