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Michael Avenatti arrested on suspicion of domestic violence

Michael Avenatti speaks out after arrest
Michael Avenatti speaks out after arrest on suspicion of domestic violence 01:32

Michael Avenatti, the attorney for Stormy Daniels and a prominent critic of President Trump, has been arrested on suspicion of domestic violence, the Los Angeles Police Department said Wednesday. Avenatti was booked Wednesday afternoon.

Police didn't immediately disclose details about the incident behind the arrest but Officer Tony Im, an LAPD spokesperson, said the victim had visible injuries. 

After posting $50,000 bail, Avenatti denied the allegations, telling reporters, "I have never struck a woman. I never will strike a woman. I have been an advocate for women's rights my entire career and I'm gonna continue to be an advocate. I am not going to be intimidated from stopping what I am doing."

In a statement issued through his law firm, he slammed the allegation as "completely bogus" and intended to harm his reputation. 

Later, he made his case on Twitter:

TMZ first reported Avenatti's arrest, and initially said the alleged incident involved Avenatti's estranged wife, Lisa Storie-Avenatti. 

However, her attorneys issued a statement denying she was involved, and TMZ issued a correction. "This article is not true as it pertains to my client. Ms. Storie-Avenatti  was not subject to any such incident." Avenatti and his wife filed for divorce in 2017.

Michael Avenatti
Michael Avenatti seen Wed., May 30, 2018. AP

Avenatti has become a fixture on cable news and is exploring a bid for president in 2020. He rose to fame as the attorney for Daniels, who was allegedly paid off to keep quiet about an affair with President Trump.

Avenatti is also the lawyer for Julie Swetnick, who accused Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct that took place decades ago. Avenatti was blamed by some Democrats for Kavanaugh's confirmation to the Senate when Swetnick walked back some of her accusations.

Avenatti has been referred to the Justice Department for an investigation into his and Swetnick's claims.

The Vermont Democratic Party canceled events planned for Friday and Saturday, where Avenatti was scheduled to speak, and is refunding ticket sales. 

Grace Segers contributed to this report

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