Reality TV star Cashel Barnett, known for his appearances on Love Island USA and The Challenge: USA, is now facing a fresh wave of serious felony charges related to an alleged assault involving his ex-girlfriend.
The disturbing accusations come just weeks after he was first arrested and held without bail in Utah.
Prosecutors filed three new felony counts against Barnett on Tuesday—aggravated sexual assault, aggravated assault, and domestic violence in the presence of a child.
According to TMZ, the charges stem from an alleged incident that took place in November 2023.
Court documents claim Barnett assaulted his ex-girlfriend after a disagreement, which reportedly escalated when she urged him to find a job to support their one-year-old child.
The victim told investigators that Barnett allegedly slapped and choked her during the assault, which occurred in front of the child.
Furthermore, the woman claimed Barnett initiated the incident by putting his hands down her pants.
When she reciprocated, he allegedly became enraged, saying, “Is this what you f—ing want?” before proceeding to physically attack her.
According to her statement, she lost consciousness briefly during the altercation.
These new charges are in addition to earlier counts related to a separate assault involving the same victim.
That previous incident, too, was said to have happened in the presence of their child.
Meanwhile, Barnett’s attorney has released a statement denying all accusations. “Mr. Barnett maintains his innocence and denies any wrongdoing,” the statement read, according to TMZ.
“My client and his family are enduring an incredibly difficult time, and we hope that his privacy will be respected as we work diligently to defend his name and reputation.”
The 34-year-old reality star is expected to be formally arraigned this week in court. If convicted, the charges carry severe penalties under Utah state law.
Authorities say the nature of the alleged crimes, especially occurring in front of a child, contributed to the gravity of the case.
Cashel Barnett rose to fame after appearing on Love Island USA in 2019.
He later participated in The Challenge: USA in 2022, gaining a broader following in the reality television space.
