Actress and mother Hayden Panettiere is breaking her silence after her ex-boyfriend, Brian Hickerson, was arrested on multiple charges, including domestic violence.
E! News confirmed Brian was arrested on Thursday, with his bail set at $320,000.
TW: this article contains depictions or discussions of domestic violence and may be triggering to some readers.
*Good Morning America* then reported that a source close to the legal process had told them Brian Hickerson had been charged Friday in an eight-count felony complaint alleging domestic violence/assault.
The source added that Hayden had reported multiple instances of “extreme domestic violence” by her ex to the police during their year-and-a-half-long relationship.
As fans of Hayden may recall, this was not Brain’s first arrest.
Teton County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming confirmed to Good Morning America that the 31-year-old was arrested this past February following a disturbance with a 30-year-old female, reportedly Hayden, and charged with domestic battery and interference with a peace officer.
A source close to the actress told *Good Morning America* that Hayden has been in treatment for alcohol abuse issues and that speaking out is a part of her recovery process.
The source added that Hayden is focused on her sobriety now.
Now, the mother and actress is breaking her silence about her experience with domestic violence in an emotional Instagram post.
In a statement to Good Morning America , Hayden’s attorney said the actress was “for years … the victim of psychological, emotional and severe physical abuse. “
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The statement continued: “Hayden has found the strength and courage to share the truth about her abuse and her abuser.”
“As a survivor, she recognizes that her arduous journey of healing has just begun.”
“For anyone else affected by abuse and needing support, please know that you can call 1-800-799-7233,” Hayden captioned her Insta post.
“If you’re unable to speak safely, you can log onto thehotline.org or text LOVEIS to 1-866-331-9474. You are not alone.”
The Instagram post itself 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.”
She concluded: “I’m grateful for my support system, which helped me find the courage to regain my voice and my life.”
Fans and friends of Hayden have been flooding the actress’ social media with messages of support and love.
“I was so worried about you, but, I was also sure that you would realize the situation and you would have the courage to get out of that relationship,” shared one fan.
“Stay strong girl! You’re not alone.”
“I love you Hayden. I hope you are well and recovering. I am sorry you had to go through that. I’m glad you decided to speak up because silence is only hurting you. Stay safe,” tweeted another fan.
“You are in my prayers friend you are more than a conqueror! You are strong and courageous and you are loved!”
“Thank you for coming forward with your story and for taking steps to hold your abuser accountable so he (hopefully) never does this to anyone again,” wrote another loving fan.
Our thoughts are with Hayden during this difficult time. For more domestic violence resources, please click here .
