Halle Berry’s daughter Nahla Aubry is stepping into her mother’s bitter custody battle, insisting the actress never abused her younger brother, Maceo.
The 18-year-old submitted a sworn declaration to Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday, after Berry’s ex-husband Olivier Martinez accused the star of physically attacking their 13-year-old son.
“I have never seen my mom place her hands around Maceo’s neck, put him in a chokehold, restrict his breathing, or engage in any conduct remotely resembling the allegations that have been made against her,” Nahla wrote, according to Us Weekly.
Martinez alleged that Maceo told him he had been choked during a Sept. 26 confrontation with Berry.
The actress disputed that account, maintaining that she and her son had been playfully wrestling. Nahla supported her mother’s version, recalling countless occasions when the pair laughed and wrestled together.
“My mom is a loving and devoted parent,” she wrote.
The teen also said the dispute has left her unsure whether to contact her brother.
“I want very much to speak with my brother and check on him. I want him to know that I love him,” she shared.
Martinez obtained a temporary restraining order and is seeking emergency custody changes.
Berry is fighting those requests, with a court hearing scheduled for Oct. 16.