Hayden Panettiere’s ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson pleaded not guilty to several felony assault charges following his arrest Thursday.
People report that Hickerson, 31, pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges, including four felony charges of bodily injury to a spouse / partner; a felony assault with a deadly weapon, “namely, garage floor”; a felony assault with a deadly weapon, “namely, stairs”; and a minor battery charge on a spouse / partner.
Just two days before Hickerson’s most recent arrest, the 30-year-old former “Nashville” star filed for an out-of-state restraining order that would protect her in California, where she now resides. Panettiere’s request came five months after Hickerson was arrested for domestic assault after allegedly assaulting her on Valentine’s Day in Wyoming.
After her arrest, the actress broke her silence about the alleged abuse, and told fans through Instagram: “I am presenting the truth about what happened to me in hopes that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need. ” and they deserve it, “he wrote on Instagram.” I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I am grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life “.
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