Why Denise Richards Gets Support from Estranged Husband’s Family in Court

Actress Denise Richards appeared in a Los Angeles court this week. The hearing concerned a permanent restraining order against her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers. A key witness provided shocking testimony about alleged domestic violence.

According to PEOPLE, the testimony came from Phypers’ own cousin, Kathleen McAllister. She appeared virtually to describe two separate incidents of alleged physical abuse she claims to have witnessed.

Court Hears Details of Alleged Assaults

Kathleen McAllister gave detailed accounts under oath. She alleged she saw Phypers push Richards against a concrete wall. She also stated he choked the actress during the same incident.

McAllister claimed the impact caused Richards to suffer a concussion. She expressed grave concern at the time, stating she was worried Richards “could have died.” The testimony described Richards as being upset, in pain, and disoriented.

A second alleged incident was also described. McAllister testified she saw Phypers hit Richards on January 17, 2022. She stated the blow immediately caused “a really bad black eye.”

McAllister told the court she remains “in shock now to this day about it.” This testimony supports earlier court documents obtained by PEOPLE. Those documents included an image of Richards with a black eye.

Divorce Follows Turbulent Period for the Couple

Aaron Phypers officially filed for divorce in Los Angeles on July 7. He listed July 4 as their date of separation. The filing cited “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for the split.

The divorce proceedings have been complicated. Richards previously returned to their shared home with moving trucks. Page Six reported the movers wore face masks due to dust and a strong smell inside the property.

Richards also removed her 15 dogs from the home. A judge had granted her permission on September 13 to retrieve her personal property and the pets. Phypers was ordered to stay 100 yards away from the residence during this process.

In August, Richards posted a video message to her fans on Instagram. She described going through a “very, very, very difficult time.” She acknowledged this was her second divorce, something she never thought would happen again.

The domestic violence allegations add a serious dimension to the couple’s separation. The court will now decide on making the temporary restraining order permanent based on this new testimony.

Thought you’d like to know-

What did Aaron Phypers’ cousin testify to in court?

Kathleen McAllister testified she saw Phypers push and choke Denise Richards. She also stated she witnessed him hit Richards, giving her a black eye on a separate occasion.

When did Aaron Phypers file for divorce?

Phypers officially filed for divorce in Los Angeles on July 7. The court documents listed the couple’s separation date as July 4 of this year.

What did Denise Richards say about her divorce?

Richards called it a “very difficult time” in a social media video. She acknowledged it was her second divorce and mentioned there were difficult circumstances she would discuss later.

What property did Richards retrieve from the shared home?

A judge granted Richards permission to get her personal property and her 15 dogs. Page Six reported movers retrieved items while Phypers was ordered to stay away.

What is the status of the restraining order?

The hearing was to determine if a temporary restraining order against Phypers should be made permanent. A judge’s decision is expected following the testimony.