Artem Chigvintsev — who is now charged with felony domestic violence — called 911 himself after he allegedly assaulted someone at his home … and minutes later, he called back and told 911 it was okay … TMZ has learned.
Artem was arrested Thursday morning in Napa, California, where he lives with his wife, TMZ reported. Nikki Garcia (aka Nikki Bella).
Sources familiar with the situation tell TMZ … the alleged victim never called 911 – apparently Artem panicked about the alleged victim’s injuries and made the emergency call around 8:30 a.m.
As we reported, paramedics and fire trucks were dispatched and were en route when 911 dispatchers received another call from Artem, telling dispatchers to cancel the entire incident.
We’re told that although paramedics and the fire department turned around and returned to the station, as is customary, police responded. Around 9:30 a.m., we were told police arrived and observed injuries on the alleged victim, which prompted automatic arrest.
Artyom was taken to the police station and booked on a felony charge of causing bodily harm to a spouse or cohabitant.
We were told the Dancing With the Stars actor had the option to take up his contract for next season, but the show chose not to take up that option this week, leaving him in a bad mood.
Artyom and Niki celebrated their second wedding anniversary this week. They have a 4-year-old son, Matteowe are told is with Nikki.
Artem was released on $25,000 bail.
If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.
