What else did the authorities say about the arrest of Artem Chigvintsev?
While Wofford told NBC News that Chigvintsev was arrested in Yountville, California, he did not disclose the exact location because the alleged victim requested privacy.
Because of that request, he added, the sheriff is also not disclosing the name, gender or age of the alleged victim, or the person's relationship to Chigvintsev. However, Wofford had this to say about the arrest.
“When someone is charged with domestic violence, it usually means there is a visible injury or a credible eyewitness,” he told E! News: “Our deputies felt comfortable arresting him on the domestic violence charge.”
“Of course, that could change if more evidence becomes available,” Wofford continued, “but at the time of the arrest, officers felt this was a felony and not a misdemeanor.”
He also shared why victims in these cases may choose to keep personal information private.
“Some victims may not feel comfortable disclosing full details if the suspect is arrested,” Wofford noted. “Some victims feel embarrassed, threatened or worried that the incident may impact their family. We need to give victims enough time and support to realize that we are here to help.”
