LOS ANGELES — In a Los Angeles courtroom, the divorce proceedings of Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers have escalated into a series of serious accusations, including claims of physical abuse. Phypers, 53, firmly denied any allegations of physical assault against Richards, the actress known from *Real Housewives of Beverly Hills*. His testimony countered Richards' request to make a temporary restraining order against him permanent.

Richards, 54, claims that Phypers subjected her to years of physical violence and threats. She shared emotional testimony about multiple incidents, including ones resulting in a black eye and a concussion. These claims were supported by photographic evidence of her injuries, which she said she hid from her family out of fear.

In response, Phypers asserted that Richards' injuries were self-inflicted during bouts of intoxication. He told the court, "I don’t abuse my wife, no." His lawyer aimed to dissolve the restraining order, but the motion was denied by Judge Mark A. Juhas. The defense hinted at Richards' alleged untruthfulness and substance issues, with planned testimonies from Charlie Sheen, Richards' ex-husband, and former castmate Brandi Glanville.

The case delves deeply into allegations of severe domestic abuse. Richards described a terrifying pattern of behavior from Phypers, including threats and physical violence that she said endangered her life.

On his part, Phypers claimed Richards was projecting her own aggressive behavior onto him as part of a strategy in their custody and divorce battle. His legal team also presented a video where Richards compared Phypers unfavorably to Sheen, discussing the physical abuse she alleges.

The proceedings underscore the complex intersection of family law and criminal allegations in California, where claims of abuse can influence major legal decisions regarding spousal support, child custody, and property division. The outcome of this case could hinge on nuanced legal distinctions between civil and criminal evidence standards.

What Happens Next

The court awaits further evidence and testimony, including potentially from Sheen and Glanville, before deciding on the status of the restraining order. As one of the most closely watched celebrity domestic-violence proceedings of the year, the case continues to capture public and media attention.