'Top Chef' Star Justin Sutherland Accused Of Choking His Girlfriend And Hitting Her With A Gun
A spokesperson for a celebrity chef refuted recent accusations of domestic violence following his arrest and charges over the weekend.
Justin Sutherland was arrested on June 28th for allegedly threatening to kill his 24-year-old girlfriend in Minnesota, 'Fox News' reports. The unnamed woman claimed he struck her with a firearm and choked her.
The 'Top Chef' star's attorney denied all accusations in a statement. "Mr. Sutherland vehemently denies all the allegations in the complaint... He never threatened to shoot anyone," the statement read. "He did not physically assault his girlfriend. He looks forward to the truth coming out as the court process unfolds."
The woman reported that the altercation occurred following a trivial argument, escalating into a physical confrontation as 'The Iron Chef' winner allegedly tried to evict her from their shared residence. She alleged that Sutherland, the host of True TV's 'Fast Foodies,' brandished a firearm at her and struck her in the chest with it, stating: "Don't come back here or I am going to shoot you."
The woman further alleged that Sutherland placed his hands around her neck and applied pressure for about five to six seconds, while allegedly threatening: "I could kill you."
RELATED : Steve Harvey Slams Katt Williams, Vows To 'Destroy' Him For Dissing Him On 'Club Shay Shay'
In her complaint, she mentioned contacting the police approximately an hour before the physical altercation but admitted to lying, stating "she wasn't in danger because she didn't want anyone to get into trouble." While the identity of the alleged victim is not confirmed, Sutherland has recently been romantically linked to model Serena Lange.
Sutherland also faces a charge of felony threats of violence with reckless disregard for the risk involved.
"Over the weekend I found myself in a situation where I was taken into custody and accused of a crime. I deeply regret putting myself in that position and the pain and distress caused to those around me," he said in a statement obtained by 'Fox News.' "I sincerely apologize to my family, friends, and fans."
The chef says he is "innocent of these charges and look forward to using the judicial system to prove my innocence. Notwithstanding, this incident has made me realize the urgent need to seek professional help and make significant changes in my life."
