The Oscar-nominated actor denies in a sworn statement that he has ever threatened his wife, Michelle, and says he has tried to refrain from contacting her as they undergo a divorce.
Michelle Howard filed for divorce in January after a year of marriage. She claims Howard has repeatedly hit her and threatened her in a text message last week.
Superior Court Judge Scott Gordon ordered Howard to not contact his estranged wife until a hearing Jan. 17.
Howard's filing states he is afraid his reputation will be ruined because of the allegations.
The 42-year-old actor received an Oscar nomination for his role in "Hustle and Flow."
