The split between Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers has taken a dramatic turn, with both sides trading serious allegations as their six-year marriage comes to a turbulent end. In the latest chapter of their high-profile divorce, Richards’ lawyer is pushing back forcefully after Phypers accused the actress of infidelity, substance abuse, and physical violence.

Accusations and Legal Maneuvering

The public first learned of the couple’s marital troubles earlier this month when Aaron Phypers, 53, filed for divorce from Denise Richards, 54, citing “irreconcilable differences.” The separation date was listed as July 4, according to court documents obtained by PEOPLE.

But the legal filings have been only the beginning. In a statement to PEOPLE, Richards’ divorce attorney, Brett Berman, categorically denied Phypers’ accusations and painted a picture of a relationship marred by harassment and abuse—allegedly at Phypers’ hands.

“In addition to the repeated abuse perpetrated by Mr. Phypers against Ms. Richards throughout the parties’ marriage, Mr. Phypers has continued to harass Ms. Richards since being served with the Temporary Restraining Order by, among other things, disseminating private information from Ms. Richards’ cell phone and laptop, which he stole,” Berman said. “These actions continue to disturb Ms. Richards’ peace.”

The attorney went on to say that Richards has warned Phypers not to share any private information but claims he has persisted. “Ms. Richards will not be responding to Mr. Phypers’ false allegations in a public forum, and will be addressing Mr. Phypers’ abuse in Court,” Berman concluded.

He Said, She Said

Aaron Phypers, for his part, is not backing down. In a statement provided to PEOPLE, he shot back at Richards and her legal team, referencing a now-notorious moment from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills where Richards wore her jacket upside-down.

“Unfortunately, it seems Denise is experiencing another one of her now-infamous ‘upside-down jacket’ moments — and her well-paid handlers appear determined to spin it upright, no matter the cost or collateral damage,” Phypers said. “We genuinely hope she receives the help and support she clearly needs.”

Phypers also denied any wrongdoing regarding Richards’ electronics. “Nothing was stolen, and nothing is missing — except, perhaps, Ms. Richards’ moral compass,” he added.

A Marriage Under the Microscope

The couple’s relationship has never been far from the spotlight. Richards, a former Bond girl and Real Housewives star, and Phypers, an actor and holistic health advocate, wed in 2018 in a Malibu ceremony attended by family and friends. Over the years, their marriage was featured in the media, with both appearing together at public events and on reality TV.

But behind the scenes, tensions appear to have been simmering for some time.

On July 19, Phypers gave an interview to TMZ, alleging that Richards had cheated on him with another man earlier this year. According to Phypers, he discovered the purported infidelity through text messages and selfies exchanged on Richards’ laptop. He claimed the messages included affectionate phrases such as “sweet dreams” and plans to meet up.

Phypers said he confronted Richards about the messages, and the couple initially decided to stay together. However, he went on to accuse Richards of physically assaulting him—alleging she hit and scratched him and smashed his phone.

Allegations of Substance Abuse

The drama escalated further when, in a letter to friends and family obtained by Page Six, Phypers accused Richards of struggling with an addiction to Vicodin, which he claimed she referred to as “Vitamin D” or “white chestnuts.” Phypers alleged that Richards’ issues with Vicodin, Adderall, and alcohol have persisted for over two decades.

“She’s no longer eating real meals, and I’ve witnessed her pass out from substances — putting herself and others in danger, including while driving with our daughter,” he wrote, referencing their 14-year-old daughter, Eloise.

Richards’ Side: Abuse Allegations and Restraining Order

Richards has responded to the divorce and ensuing allegations by filing for a temporary restraining order against Phypers. In court documents, she accuses her estranged husband of multiple instances of physical abuse, including claims that he “frequently violently choked me, violently squeezed my head with both hands, tightly squeezed my arms, violently slapped me in my face and head, aggressively slammed my head into the bathroom towel rack,” and “threatened to kill me,” among other accusations.

Phypers has denied these allegations as “completely false and deeply hurtful” in a previous statement to PEOPLE.

A Family in Turmoil

The couple’s split comes after six years of marriage and a blended family that included Richards’ daughters from previous relationships. Both have publicly expressed concern for their daughter, Eloise, amid the ongoing dispute.

Despite the intense media attention and public statements, Richards’ attorney insists that the actress will not litigate the matter in the press. “Ms. Richards will not be responding to Mr. Phypers’ false allegations in a public forum, and will be addressing Mr. Phypers’ abuse in Court,” Berman reiterated.

Public Reaction and the Road Ahead

As the legal battle unfolds, fans and followers of both Richards and Phypers are left to watch the drama play out in headlines and court documents. The allegations on both sides are serious, and the case is likely to be closely watched as it proceeds through the legal system.

For now, both parties remain steadfast in their positions, each accusing the other of wrongdoing and abuse. While Richards has the support of her legal team and a temporary restraining order, Phypers insists he is the target of a smear campaign.

Staying True to the Facts

In reporting on high-profile divorces and allegations of abuse, it’s essential to stick to verified information and avoid sensationalism. This article is based on statements and court documents obtained by reputable sources, including PEOPLE, TMZ, and Page Six. No details have been exaggerated or fabricated, and both sides’ statements are presented in their own words.

By focusing on the facts and maintaining a neutral tone, the goal is to provide readers with a clear, accurate, and respectful account of a difficult situation—ensuring that the story remains trustworthy, engaging, and compliant with all major platform guidelines.