Actress Rumer Willis Accuses Ex-Husband of Abuse, Seeks Custody

Actress Rumer Willis has initiated divorce proceedings against musician Derek Richard Thomas, accusing him of domestic violence and coercive control. Court documents filed in Los Angeles detail Willis's claims that Thomas's behavior traumatized their three-year-old daughter, Louetta, during her first year of life. Willis alleges "crazy, emotional outbursts" lasting up to six hours, often occurring while their child was present and distressed.

Willis is seeking primary physical custody of Louetta and requests that Thomas undergo drug testing, citing a history of "chronic daily marijuana use" and behavior suggesting impairment. She describes him as emotionally abusive, unreasonable, hostile, and unable to prioritize their child's needs. The couple began their relationship in 2022 and separated in the summer of 2024.

Conversely, Derek Richard Thomas vehemently denies all accusations. In his court response, he asserts that Willis's claims are "inaccurate and full of false allegations" and states he has "never committed acts of domestic violence in any form, including 'coercive control.'" Thomas acknowledges the relationship was "unhealthy" and ended for valid reasons, but insists the decision was mutual and not characterized by abuse or intimidation on his part. His attorney stated Thomas will not engage in a "media trial" but is confident the court will discern the truth.

The legal battle began in July 2025 when Thomas initiated proceedings to establish parentage and sought joint legal and physical custody. A key point of contention is Willis's relocation with their daughter to Sun Valley, Idaho, in 2024. Thomas claims he supported this as a temporary measure due to California wildfires but never consented to a permanent move. He expresses concern about the Willis family's "long-standing roots and significant influence" in Idaho potentially creating an imbalance in the legal proceedings.