Aaron Phypers Faces Felony Charges After Courthouse Arrest Involving Denise Richards
Los Angeles, CA – aaron Phypers, the estranged husband of Actress Denise Richards, 54, was taken into custody on October 17, 2025, outside a Los Angeles courthouse immediately following a hearing regarding a permanent restraining order. The arrest stems from allegations that have rapidly escalated the couple’s already acrimonious divorce proceedings.
Details of the Arrest and charges
According to court records, Phypers, 53, is charged with two felony counts of injuring a spouse and two felony counts of dissuading a witness by force or threat. Bail has been set at $200,000. his attorney, Michael Finley, stated that Phypers was unaware of the outstanding warrant and believes the situation was orchestrated by Richards and her legal team.
Witnesses at the scene reported a chaotic scene, with Phypers being escorted away by authorities just steps from the courtroom. Us Weekly reported an eyewitness account stating,”He’s been arrested outside the court and taken down a nearby escalator.[He] did not come back into [the] hallway.” Richards herself was present and reportedly remained calm throughout the ordeal, conferring with her legal counsel.
Conflicting Accounts and Allegations
The arrest follows months of publicly aired accusations of abuse. Richards initially went public with claims of violence in July, alleging years of physical and emotional abuse. She detailed specific instances, including alleged choking, slapping, and threats against her life in court filings.
Phypers has vehemently denied these allegations, characterizing them as fabricated. He released a statement asserting he has “never physically or emotionally abused Denise – or anyone.”
During the October hearing, testimony further complex the case. Patricia Phypers, Aaron’s mother, testified that she witnessed Richards throwing a can opener at her son during an argument, but insisted she had never seen him act violently toward his wife. Pamela Brogardi, Richards’ makeup artist, testified that Phypers threatened to harm her after an incident where he allegedly barged into a room while she was working.
Kathleen McAllister, Aaron’s cousin, also offered testimony, claiming she witnessed Phypers strike Richards in January 2022, resulting in a visible black eye.
Timeline of the Relationship and divorce
Richards and Phypers married in 2018 after a two-year courtship. The relationship unraveled earlier this year, with Phypers filing for divorce in July.As then, the proceedings have been marked by escalating conflict, court appearances, and conflicting testimonies from those close to the couple.
A subsequent hearing concerning Richards’ request for a permanent restraining order is scheduled for November 7 in Los Angeles.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 17, 2025 | Aaron Phypers arrested outside los Angeles Courthouse. |
| July 2025 | Denise Richards publicly alleges years of abuse in court filings. |
| July 2025 | Aaron Phypers files for divorce. |
| 2018 | Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers marry. |
Did You know? Domestic violence cases often involve conflicting testimony from involved parties and witnesses, making legal proceedings especially complex.
Understanding Restraining Orders and Abuse Allegations
Restraining orders, also known as protective orders, are legal measures designed to protect individuals from harm or harassment. In cases involving allegations of domestic violence, these orders can prohibit contact between parties and provide specific restrictions. The legal definition of abuse varies by jurisdiction,but typically encompasses physical harm,emotional distress,threats,and controlling behavior.
According to the National Coalition against Domestic Violence (NCADV), approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Learn more about domestic violence statistics and resources here.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, reach out for help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Case
- What charges is Aaron Phypers facing? Phypers is facing two felony counts of injuring a spouse and two felony counts of dissuading a witness by force or threat.
- What is Denise Richards alleging against Aaron Phypers? Richards alleges years of physical and emotional abuse.
- What has Aaron Phypers’ response been to the accusations? Phypers vehemently denies the allegations, calling them fabricated.
- What is the status of the divorce proceedings? The divorce is ongoing,with a hearing on Denise Richards’ request for a restraining order scheduled for November 7,2025.
- Where did the arrest of Aaron Phypers take place? The arrest took place outside a los Angeles courthouse.
- Is there conflicting testimony in this case? Yes, testimony from both sides, as well as from family members and associates, has presented conflicting accounts.
- What resources are available for those experiencing domestic abuse? The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
What impact will the upcoming hearing have on the case? Do you feel the media coverage is influencing public perception?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and help spread awareness about the complexities of domestic violence.
