Tom Sandoval on James Kennedy Allegations: ‘Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire’

It wasn’t all that long ago that Vanderpump Rules alum Tom Sandoval dominated the headlines with Scandoval. Everyone except Tom Schwartz initially dropped him for cheating on his girlfriend, Ariana Madix. And that included his co-star and buddy, James Kennedy. However, now Tom is speaking out about James’ domestic violence arrest.

Tom Sandoval was close with James Kennedy at one point on Vanderpump Rules

James was arrested for domestic violence on December 10, 2024. According to the arrest log, James allegedly lifted a woman and threw her to the ground. Later, the Burbank City Attorney’s Office opted not to file charges against James. His girlfriend, Ally Lewber, moved out and later confirmed that they had broken up.

Tom was recently a guest on The Viall Files podcast, where he discussed James. The duo were close friends at one point, with Tom even paying for James’ proposal to Rachel Leviss. Welp, Tom went on to have an affair with Rachel after she and James ended their relationship.

“Considering James and [my] past, he was getting chants going ‘Sandoval’s a liar.’ But, unlike James Kennedy, I’m not going to kick him while he’s down,” Tom said. “I’m sure he’s dealing with a lot.”

The Pump Rules alum continued, “With that being said, whether there’s alcohol involved or not, there’s absolutely no excuse for a man to put his hands on a woman.” I agree with Tom! That is a strange sensation.

Tom added, “Also, there’s a lot of other previous allegations, and where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” As you may recall, both The Valley star Kristen Doute and Rachel spoke out about James after his arrest. Kristen shared a post showing James’ arrest in her Instagram Story and wrote the word “Finally” over it. Pump Rules fans are well-acquainted with their toxic relationship. James even spit on Kristen’s door once on camera.

Meanwhile, Rachel’s attorneys, Bryan Freedman and Mark Geragos, issued a statement following her ex-fiancé’s arrest. “This news is, unfortunately, not surprising. Rachel’s lawsuit describes, in significant detail, Mr. Kennedy’s long history of erratic, violent behavior and substance abuse.”

Vanderpump Rules is streaming on Peacock.