After being taken into custody just before Christmas in Texas, former High School Musical 3 star Matt Prokop, aged 35, faces charges of possession of child pornography and four misdemeanours. The actor, known for his role in the Disney movie, was arrested on Christmas Eve.
Prokop is accused of aggravated assault of a family member with a weapon and second-degree felony possession of child pornography, along with other offenses. The date of his court appearance is currently undisclosed.
Allegations of abuse from his ex-girlfriend, Sarah Hyland, led to Prokop’s arrest, as reported by PEOPLE. Hyland, who starred with Prokop in the 2011 movie “Geek Charming,” claimed he verbally and physically abused her during their five-year relationship.
Court documents revealed that Prokop allegedly slammed Hyland into a vehicle and choked her during an argument. Modern Family star Julie Bowen intervened to help Hyland end the relationship. Hyland was granted a restraining order against Prokop, who allegedly threatened to harm her dog and burn down her house.
Following the assault claims, Prokop was required to maintain a distance of 100 yards from Hyland and her dog at all times. In her court documents, Hyland stated, “His grip was so tight that I could not breathe or speak. I was scared and in fear for my life.”
Hyland emphasized the importance of speaking out about domestic violence in a 2024 interview with Variety, highlighting the need for open dialogue to support victims in abusive relationships.
Additionally, Prokop has appeared in various TV series, including Hannah Montana, The Office, Good Luck Charlie, and Modern Family.
If you or someone you know needs support regarding domestic abuse, please reach out to the National Domestic Abuse Freephone Helpline or other relevant resources for assistance.