On July 17, 2020, actress Hayden Panettiere released a statement on Instagram just days after her ex-boyfriend Brian Hickerson was arrested and charged with eight counts of felony complaint alleging domestic violence and assault.
The charges came after Hickerson had been arrested multiple times, including one time where he allegedly punched Panettiere in the face, and after a restraining order was granted.
“After suffering for years as the victim of psychological, emotional and severe physical abuse, Hayden Panettiere has begun the process of taking back her life,” her attorney, Alan Jackson, said in a statement. “Hayden has found the strength and courage to share the truth about her abuse and her abuser, and she intends to assist the prosecution to see that justice is served.”
The actress’ statement on Instagram read:
“I am coming forward with the truth about what happened to me with the hope that my story will empower others in abusive relationships to get the help they need and deserve. I am prepared to do my part to make sure this man never hurts anyone again. I’m grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life.”
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According to E!‘s report, Hickerson pleaded no contest to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend and was sentenced to 45 days in county jail, “four years of formal probation, must attend 52 domestic violence classes and pay a $500 fee, as well as a five-year restraining order.”
Panettiere has been an actress since she was a child, breaking out in the film Remember the Titans.
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She starred in the show Heroes and more recently, played country singer Juliette Barnes in the ABC and CMT drama Nashville.