Share

Modern Family star gets restraining order against ex


Los Angeles - The ex-boyfriend of actress Sarah Hyland was ordered to stay away from the Modern Family star after she said he choked and threatened her.

Hyland, 23, obtained the temporary restraining order on Friday after stating in court papers that actor Matt Prokop had been verbally and physically abusive.

Prokop was ordered to stay 100 yards away from the actress, her home, workplace and dog, and not attempt to contact her. A 10 October hearing was set.

Hyland wrote that Prokop pinned her to her car in May.

"He placed both of his hands around my throat and began to choke me," Hyland wrote. "His grip was so tight that I could not breathe or speak. I was scared and in fear for my life."

Hyland said she did not report the incident to police because Prokop was apologetic and said he would never do it again.

A receptionist for Prokop's agent Tyler Grasham said they had no comment on the allegations. Prokop is not facing any criminal charges.

Prokop, also 23, co-starred with Hyland in the TV movie Geek Charming and appeared in one episode of Modern Family. He also appeared in High School Musical 3.

Tried to end the relationship

The actress wrote that she tried to end the relationship for several weeks but ultimately had to enlist the help of Modern Family actress Julie Bowen and others.

Bowen was present on 16 August to help Hyland peacefully end the relationship before Prokop went into rehab the next day, the court filings state.

Prokop, however, made comments that his ex-girlfriend should be made to suffer so much she would kill herself, the court filings state.

Later that day, Prokop went to a house Hyland is building and threatened to drive through the garage door, set it on fire, and harm the actress' Maltipoo dog, named Barkley Bixby, the records state.

Prokop entered rehab the next day and was scheduled to be discharged over the weekend. Hyland's declaration states the director of the rehab advised her to get a restraining order due to Prokop's mental state and attitude toward her.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE