What else have authorities said about the arrest of Artem Chigvintsev?
While Wofford said NBC News Chigvintsev was arrested in Yountville, California, but his exact location was not disclosed due to a privacy request from the alleged victim.
As a result of this request, he added, the sheriff has also not released the name, sex or age of the alleged victim or the person's relationship to Chigvintsev. However, Wofford did say the following about the arrest.
“When someone is charged with a felony domestic violence charge, it usually means there is a visible injury or a credible eyewitness,” she told E! News. “Our officers felt comfortable arresting him on felony domestic violence charges.”
“Of course, this could change with more evidence that may come to light,” Wofford continued, “but at the time of the arrest the officers felt this was a felony charge rather than a misdemeanor.”
She also shared why victims may choose to keep personal information private in these cases.
“Some victims may not feel comfortable sharing all the details at the time the suspect is arrested,” Wofford said. “Some victims feel embarrassed, threatened or fear that the incident may affect their family. We need to give victims the appropriate time and support to help them realize that we are here to help.”