Halle Berry's daughter, Nahla Aubry, 18, has told a Los Angeles court she has never seen her mother physically abuse her younger brother, Maceo, 13, according to a declaration filed Oct. 3 and obtained by PEOPLE.
The statement was filed in the custody fight between Berry, 60, and her ex-husband, Olivier Martinez, 60. Martinez accused the Oscar-winning actress of physically abusing Maceo during a Sept. 26 incident and is asking for sole custody. A judge granted a temporary restraining order on Oct. 1. Berry denies the allegations.
In her declaration, Nahla described her mother as a "loving and devoted parent" who is strict when needed but warm and involved. She said she has seen Berry and Maceo wrestle and laugh together, and has never seen her brother hurt or upset afterward. She also denied hearing her mother make racially insensitive comments, another claim in Martinez's filing, and said she was shocked and very upset by the allegations.
Nahla added that she last spoke with Maceo on Sept. 29 and wants to talk with him again. She has held back because she is unsure what Martinez's court filings allow, according to reports.
Martinez told PEOPLE his actions were motivated by concern for his son's welfare. Berry has asked the court to restore their 50/50 custody agreement.
Nothing has been proven, and the temporary order is not a final ruling. A hearing set for Oct. 16 will determine whether it stays in place. For many readers of faith, this is a moment to pray for wisdom for the court and peace for the children at the center of the case.
Related: Halle Berry Denies Abuse Claims After Judge Grants Ex Olivier Martinez a Temporary Restraining Order
