Former NBA star Dwight Howard has taken a significant step in his divorce proceedings with Amber Rose Howard, as he recently withdrew a restraining order against her. This decision comes as both parties work towards what they hope will be an amicable resolution following their separation.
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Howard, 40, initially filed for divorce on March 9 after 14 months of marriage. The timing of the filings was notable, with Amber reportedly submitting her own divorce papers just hours after Howard’s. The former couple’s relationship has been turbulent, highlighted by their reconciliation last summer after Amber had previously initiated divorce proceedings.
The decision to dismiss the restraining order has been described by Howard’s attorney, Gillian B. Fierer, as a foundational step towards achieving a peaceful conclusion to their marriage. Fierer stated, “Dismissing the protective order in exchange for an order in the divorce case was the first step in that process of amicable resolution, which is always the best course of action in any divorce proceedings.”
Reports indicate that the couple’s separation has not been without conflict. Authorities were called to their residence in Suwanee, Georgia on three consecutive days in early March. These visits were prompted by various incidents that included allegations of a suicide threat, a domestic dispute, and reported theft.
On March 7, Howard contacted law enforcement, claiming that Amber had taken numerous personal items from him, including a quartz crystal chain, a wedding ring, and significant amounts of cash. According to police body camera footage, Howard alleged that Amber had stolen belongings valued at nearly £20,000. During this interaction, he expressed concern over the disappearance of his items, stating, “I went to get my son, and when I came back out to my car, all my stuff was gone.”
While he did not specify which child he was retrieving, Howard has a total of five children from various relationships. The retired player is a father to three sons—Braylon, Dwight, and David—as well as two daughters, Layla and Jayde. Such complexities highlight the challenges faced by Howard in balancing family dynamics amidst the divorce.
In addition to the theft claims, Howard discussed prior interactions with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFACS), indicating that social services had also been involved in events unfolding at their home.
Having recently announced his retirement from professional basketball, Howard is now focusing on navigating this difficult personal chapter. His attorney has reiterated the importance of privacy as he and Amber move through the divorce proceedings. “Mr. and Mrs. Howard, and their lawyers, are on the path toward working amicably to resolve the issues in their divorce case and to permanently separate,” Fierer noted.
Howard’s appeal for peace and privacy reflects the complexities of high-profile divorces, which often attract public scrutiny. He has expressed a desire to handle the situation with dignity as they disentangle their lives.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how the couple will resolve their outstanding issues, but both appear to be committed to finding common ground in the aftermath of their marriage. As this chapter closes for Howard, the focus will shift towards his future and the well-being of his children.