In a troubling turn of events, former child star Matt Prokop has been apprehended in Texas. The 35-year-old faces several charges, with the most serious being a second-degree felony for possession of child pornography.

Matt Prokop’s arrest, which unfolded on December 24 in Victoria County, Texas, was confirmed by a representative from the Victoria County Jail to People magazine. Prior to this, TMZ had broken the news, shedding light on the actor’s latest legal woes.

The court documents paint a grim picture, with Prokop not only facing the felony charge but also dealing with four misdemeanor allegations. These include a violation of a bond or protective order, evading arrest or detention, and two instances of resisting arrest, search, or transportation.

Currently held at the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office Jail, Prokop awaits his initial court appearance, though a date has yet to be set. This arrest marks a new chapter in the actor’s turbulent history, which previously saw him embroiled in controversy due to his relationship with actress Sarah Hyland.

The couple’s five-year relationship ended amid serious allegations from Hyland, who accused Prokop of verbal and physical abuse. Legal records obtained by People revealed distressing claims, including an incident in May 2014 where Hyland accused Prokop of slamming her into a vehicle and choking her during a heated argument.

The situation escalated later that summer. In August 2014, Modern Family star Julie Bowen reportedly intervened to help Hyland leave the relationship. Per Hyland’s restraining order filing, Prokop allegedly threatened to kill her dog and burn down her house following the breakup. Hyland was granted a restraining order the following month.

Hyland has largely avoided discussing the relationship in the years since. However, she addressed its lasting impact during an October 2024 interview with Variety, saying, “I don’t know if that part [of] any woman will ever be fully healed from that. It’s something that kind of scars her soul a little bit. It’s more so putting love towards that scar instead of hating it and ignoring it.”

If you are experiencing domestic violence, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. The service is confidential, toll-free, and available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child (1-800-422-4453) or visit childhelp.org. The hotline is available 24/7 and offers confidential support in more than 170 languages.