Denise Richards Emotionally Recounts Alleged Abuse in Court Testimony

Denise Richards recently opened up about her alleged experiences of abuse in court, while testifying against her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers. The actress, known for her role on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” was visibly emotional as she recounted several troubling incidents that led her to seek a temporary restraining order against Phypers.

Details of the Testimony

During her testimony in Los Angeles, Richards described instances of both physical and emotional abuse. Dressed in a blue leather outfit, she spoke candidly about the fear she experienced in her relationship. On July 17, she was granted a temporary restraining order amid her ongoing divorce proceedings that began when Phypers filed for divorce on July 7, citing irreconcilable differences.

Specific Claims of Abuse

Richards detailed an incident that occurred shortly after she underwent multiple cosmetic surgeries, which left her vulnerable. She claimed Phypers became “volatile” at the Four Seasons hotel and described an episode where he allegedly tried to search her devices while she slept. This incident escalated to physical violence, with Richards noting that he struck her face and caused damage to property.

• Incident at the Four Seasons hotel shortly after surgery.
• Allegations of physical abuse including hitting and grabbing.
• Claims of emotional distress and feeling unsafe in her own home.

“That is when I really, really knew that our marriage was over because there’s been physical abuse, but it kept getting worse,” Richards testified, illustrating the emotional toll of these experiences.

Major Incidents Recalled

Richards shared frightening accounts of her interactions with Phypers. She recalled an argument stemming from discussions about his family living in their home. “He got very angry with me and volatile,” she said. During another moment, after returning from a work trip, she woke up to find Phypers allegedly squeezing her head and accusing her of infidelity.

• Richards described feeling disoriented and terrified during these encounters.
• Multiple cosmetic surgical recoveries made her experience of violence particularly distressing.

Restraining Order and Legal Proceedings

Richards detailed in court documents allegations of extreme physical abuse, including choking, slapping, and threats against her life. She expressed fear of reporting these incidents earlier due to Phypers’ threats against her safety and his own. The abusive behavior included threats to “disappear” if law enforcement was contacted.

Phypers has denied all allegations of abuse. In a statement, he claimed, “I have never physically or emotionally abused Denise – or anyone.” He characterized the accusations as hurtful and untrue, asking for privacy during their personal matters. Furthermore, his legal team has filed a list of potential witnesses, including Richards’ ex-husband Charlie Sheen, to contest her claims.

Conclusion

As the case continues to unfold, Richards remains steadfast in her allegations against Phypers. The emotional weight of her testimony highlights the broader issues of domestic abuse and the complexities involved in such legal battles. The situation is still developing, and both parties are preparing for the next steps in court.