Hayden Panettiere Reportedly Spotted Hanging Out With 'Abuser' Brian Hickerson Following His Release From Jail, 'Loved Ones' Concerned
After spies spotted actress Hayden Panettiere hanging with her abusive ex, Brian Hickerson, over the weekend, the duo reportedly partied it up with a group of pals in West Hollywood, Calif.
Their reunion comes as a surprise, as Hickerson recently was released from the slammer after assaulting the Nashville star.
As OK! previously reported, Hickerson arrived at the Men's Central Jail in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday, May 7, to begin his sentence after being arrested on charges of domestic violence and assault against his ex.
Hickerson was sentenced to 45 days in jail after pleading no contest on Tuesday, April 20, to two felony counts of injuring a spouse or girlfriend. He was also arrested on six other counts, which included battery, assault with a deadly weapon and dissuading a witness, but they were all dismissed.
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In addition to jail time, Hickerson was sentenced to four years of formal probation, 52 domestic violence classes and $500 in restitution.
Now, Hickerson is setting the record straight on his hang out with the 31-year-old. "To clarify, I was enjoying a Miller 'Latte' [bro code for Miller Lite], and Hayden was not drinking," the actor spilled. "We went to a new restaurant that is Texas-based, and being a Southern guy, I'm a big fan of country music. So yes, there was some line dancing involved. Hayden and I are not back together but are working on a friendship."
He continued: "We have a long history together, and the first step in my recovery as an abuser is making amends. That's exactly what Hayden has been gracious enough to allow me to do."
A pal close to the Heroes alum spilled that she was definitely not drinking, as she is “focusing on her sobriety” and working to be a better mom to 6-year-old daughter Kaya, whom she shares with ex, Wladimir Klitschko.
"Hayden is open to forgiving Brian and starting a new chapter, despite her loved ones concerns," an insider told E!. "Hayden has a huge heart and wants to see the best in everyone."
