Aaron Phypers, the estranged husband of actress Denise Richards, was arrested on felony spousal abuse charges in a Los Angeles courtroom on October 17, 2025, during a hearing over Richards’ restraining order against him. This incident underscores the severe allegations of domestic violence and the contentious divorce proceedings between the former couple.
On Friday, October 17, 2025, Aaron Phypers was taken into custody at the Van Nuys Courthouse after a break in the hearing regarding Denise Richards’ temporary restraining order. According to court records, he faces four criminal charges, including two counts of injuring a spouse and two counts of dissuading a witness by force or threat, with alleged incidents occurring in January and May 2022. Phypers was handcuffed inside the courtroom and escorted out by sheriffs, later booked into the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station with bail set at $200,000. His attorney, Michael Finley, stated that the charges are based on allegations already being contested in divorce court and expressed confidence that Phypers would be exonerated, emphasizing that filing charges does not imply guilt.
Richards has detailed numerous abuse allegations in court, testifying that Phypers caused her at least three concussions through violent acts. She described specific incidents, such as one in January 2022 where he allegedly slammed her head against a concrete wall, resulting in a black eye, and another in April 2025 at a Chicago hotel where she claimed he squeezed her head so hard it felt like he was crushing her skull. Richards also alleged that Phypers frequently choked her, slapped her, and threatened to kill her, leaving her fearful for her life. She emotionally recounted these events, including an altercation hours after she underwent cosmetic surgery, which she said made her realize the marriage was over due to escalating abuse.
In response, Phypers has consistently denied all accusations, stating under oath that he never physically harmed Richards or threatened her. He characterized her allegations as fabricated and suggested that witnesses supporting her were motivated by proximity to celebrity. His legal team argues that the criminal case mirrors the divorce proceedings and expects to disprove the claims. Phypers maintained that Richards’ behavior, including alleged infidelity, contributed to their marital breakdown, and he has filed counter-petitions in the divorce.
The restraining order hearing is part of a broader legal conflict that began when Richards petitioned for the order in July 2025, citing physical and emotional abuse. Phypers filed for divorce earlier that month, citing irreconcilable differences and seeking spousal support. The judge has granted a continuance of the temporary restraining order until November 7, allowing both sides to prepare for further hearings. This legal battle has drawn public attention due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.
Beyond the abuse claims, the divorce has been complicated by issues of privacy. Richards accused Phypers of stealing her laptop and disseminating private information, including nude photographs, to the media. Phypers admitted to taking photos of her phone but claimed it was due to suspicions of cheating, arguing it did not violate her privacy. The judge previously ordered him to return the device and refrain from distributing sensitive material. Richards expressed shame and embarrassment over the leaked photos, stating that it affected her family, particularly her daughters.
Financial disputes have also surfaced, with Phypers demanding spousal support and half of Richards’ earnings from her OnlyFans account, which he claims are derived from photos he took. He filed a petition stating he is facing eviction and utility shutoffs after Richards allegedly cut off access to joint accounts. Richards, who shares children with ex-husband Charlie Sheen and one daughter with Phypers, has opposed these demands, framing them as exploitative amid the legal strife. Phypers requested immediate access to $200,000 and additional spousal support.
As the case unfolds, it highlights broader issues of domestic violence, celebrity privacy, and legal accountability. The outcome of the criminal and divorce proceedings will likely shape the futures of both individuals, with potential implications for public perception and personal recovery. The next court date is set for November 7, where further developments are expected.