**Update 10/09/16: Tasya van Ree has spoken out in defence of her former girlfriend, asserting that Amber was “wrongfully accused” over the 2009 incident. According to Tasya, the alleged event was “misinterpreted and over-sensationalised” by two people at the time.
“I recount hints of misogynistic attitudes toward us which later appeared to be homophobic when they found out we were domestic partners and not just ‘friends’. Charges were quickly dropped and she was released moments later,” Tasya said.
While she split from Amber two years ago, Tasya added that she is still on good terms with the actress.
“It’s disheartening that Amber’s integrity and story are being questioned yet again. Amber is a brilliant, honest and beautiful woman and I have the utmost respect for her. We shared 5 wonderful years together and remain close to this day,” she continued.
Original story continues below.
Multiple media outlets are reporting that Amber Heard, 30, was arrested on a charge of domestic violence back in 2009, after allegedly getting into an argument with then-partner Tasya van Ree at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on September 14, 2009.
According to TMZ, Amber reportedly grabbed Tasya and struck her in the arm, which led to the arrest. The actress was allegedly booked for misdemeanour domestic violence and appeared in court the next day, where the prosecutor decided not to move forward with the case.
Amber and Tasya pictured at a charity event in 2010. Photo: Getty
The star is currently embroiled in a legal battle with estranged husband Johnny Depp, whom Amber has accused of domestic abuse. In a statement, Amber’s lawyers said the actress had suffered “years of physical and psychological abuse at the hands of Johnny”, calling her a “hero” for coming forward with her story.
Johnny and Amber had been married for 15 months when she filed for divorce on May 23 this year, after meeting on the set of their 2011 film The Rum Diary.
Amber was granted a temporary restraining order against Johnny after claims he had been violent towards, breaking things in their apartment and reportedly striking her in the face with his mobile phone.
In a statement released shortly after the news of their divorce proceedings broke, Johnny’s rep said the actor would not be responding to “any of the salacious false stories, gossip , misinformation and lies”.
Johnny and Amber were married for 15 months and allegedly had no prenup in place.
