DeAnna Pappas addresses domestic violence arrest and abuse claims during divorce from Stephen Stagliano

DeAnna Pappas denies abuse allegations and clarifies her legal status after arrest amid ongoing divorce.

Former Bachelorette star DeAnna Pappas has issued a public statement addressing recent allegations and legal developments connected to her ongoing divorce from ex-husband Stephen Stagliano. On April 3, a spokesperson for Pappas shared a message via her Instagram Stories clarifying her legal status and intent to protect her family’s privacy.

The statement follows headlines about her February 27 arrest on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge. However, Pappas’ spokesperson said that after a review of video evidence, investigators found she was not the aggressor and chose not to pursue charges. “No criminal charges were filed,” the statement noted.

Pappas and Stagliano, who share two children—Addison, 11, and Austin, 9—announced their separation in January 2023, citing “irreconcilable differences.” Although the split initially appeared amicable, tensions escalated in March when additional allegations surfaced from Stagliano’s family. On March 7, Stephen’s mother, Lynn Stagliano, filed a declaration in court accusing Pappas of being intoxicated and irresponsible around her children.

In response, Pappas voluntarily submitted to drug testing after being released from jail and stated the results were negative. She also denied the accusations in legal filings, asserting that claims of alcoholism were fabricated to gain leverage in custody proceedings.

The Instagram statement added that Pappas voluntarily withdrew a temporary restraining order to protect her children from public conflict. “Any continued attempt to distort facts or interfere with the children’s well-being will be met with the appropriate legal response,” the message read.

She also urged the media to avoid speculation that could impact her children’s emotional well-being. The statement concluded that the matter is proceeding through the legal system and that Pappas will not make further comments at this time.