Sarah Hyland of Modern Family fame made headlines in surprising fashion this week when she filed for a restraining order against her ex Matthew Prokop.
The actress refused to comment on the matter further, though, referring questions to her attorney, who issued a statement on the topic last night:
“The documents filed speak for themselves. Out of respect for the court, the process, and all parties, I have advised Ms. Hyland not to comment on the matter.”
Hyland claims that Matt Prokop threatened and verbally abused her, and even got physical with her during their relationship of several years.
She alleges that Prokop “pinned [her] against a car,” and grabbed her throat. Prokop’s “grip was so tight that I could not breathe or speak,” she claims.
“I was scared and in fear for my life,” Hyland writes.
He also reportedly threw a lighter at her and FREAKED when Sarah broke up with him, with her co-star Julie Bowen – on hand to help protect her – witnessing this.
It was a “really scary situation” for the 23-year-old star, says a source close to her, who adds that Sarah is resilient and trying to move forward with her life.
“She’s a strong girl. I have no doubt she will bounce back from this. She’s been through a lot in her life, but she’s still an amazing and strong person.”
Strong, but human. It’s had a profound effect on her.
The source adds that it’ll probably be a while “before she’s ready to date again” after Prokop’s abuse, so she is “focusing on work” for the time being.
“She just wants to leave this situation behind her.”
Fingers crossed that she can, as it sounds scary.
Domestic violence is never okay, and this is yet another case of it allegedly happening to someone whom you would never expect were a victim.
