Former child actor Matt Prokop has been arrested in Texas on multiple charges, including felony possession of child pornography. Here’s a detailed look at the arrest, past allegations, and what happens next.
Former child actor Matt Prokop, best known for his role in Disney Channel productions, has been arrested in Texas on multiple criminal charges, including possession of child pornography. The arrest has renewed public attention on Prokop’s troubled past, which includes widely reported allegations of abuse made by his former girlfriend, actress Sarah Hyland.
According to jail records confirmed by an employee at the Victoria County Jail, Prokop, 35, was taken into custody on December 24 in Victoria County, Texas. He is currently being held at the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office Jail. TMZ was the first outlet to report the arrest. As of now, it remains unclear when Prokop will make his first court appearance.
Charges Filed Against Matt Prokop
Authorities say Prokop is facing several charges stemming from the arrest. These include four misdemeanor offenses: one count of violating a bond or protective order, one count of evading arrest or detention, and two counts of resisting arrest, search, or transportation.
In addition to the misdemeanor charges, Prokop is also facing a far more serious allegation — one count of second-degree felony possession of child pornography. Under Texas law, this charge carries significant legal consequences if convicted, including potential prison time and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Law enforcement officials have not yet released detailed information about the evidence connected to the felony charge. Court records have also not clarified whether Prokop has entered a plea or retained legal counsel.
Read also… Timothy Busfield Faces Criminal Charges Alleging Sexual Contact With Minors: What We Know So Far
Past Abuse Allegations From Sarah Hyland
Prokop’s arrest comes years after disturbing allegations made by Hyland, his former girlfriend of five years. The two began dating in 2009 and ended their relationship in 2014. Following their breakup, Hyland accused Prokop of verbal and physical abuse throughout their relationship.
According to court filings previously obtained by PEOPLE, Hyland alleged that in May 2014, Prokop slammed her into a vehicle and choked her during an argument. The situation reportedly escalated in August 2014, when Hyland’s Modern Family costar Julie Bowen intervened to help her safely end the relationship.
Hyland claimed in her restraining order request that after the breakup, Prokop threatened to kill her dog and burn down her house. In September 2014, a judge granted Hyland a restraining order against Prokop, legally barring him from contacting her.
Hyland’s Reflections Years Later
In the years following the restraining order, Hyland has largely avoided speaking publicly about the relationship. However, in an October 2024 interview with Variety, she reflected on the long-lasting emotional impact of abuse.
“I don’t know if that part [of] any woman will ever be fully healed from that,” Hyland said. “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.”
Her comments were widely praised for shedding light on the lasting psychological effects of domestic violence and the importance of healing and support.
Legal Status and What Comes Next
At present, Prokop remains in custody in Victoria County. Officials have not confirmed whether bail has been set or when he is expected to appear before a judge. Because the felony charge involves alleged sexual exploitation of minors, the case is likely to draw close scrutiny from prosecutors and the public alike.
It is important to note that Prokop, like all defendants, is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Still, the combination of current charges and past allegations has reignited conversations about accountability, abuse, and the long-term consequences of violent behavior.
Resources for Victims
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. 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 or exploitation, you can contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) or visit childhelp.org. Trained counselors are available around the clock to provide support and guidance.
As the legal process unfolds, further details about Prokop’s case are expected to emerge. For now, the arrest marks another serious chapter in a story that continues to raise difficult but necessary discussions about abuse, accountability, and protecting vulnerable individuals.