Ariel Winter's grandfather defends daughter in abuse claims

Ariel Winter's grandfather has spoken out in defense of his daughter following claims she is abusing the teenage actress.

James Batistas insists his daughter Chrystal Workman is a "very good mother to all the children" and that he never witnessed any abuse of the Modern Family star.

Winter stated in court last month (Oct12) that she was subjected to ongoing physical and emotional abuse including "vile name calling" and "slapping, hitting and pushing", which Workman denies.

The 14 year old was removed form her mother's home following the allegations and her older sister Shanelle Workman now has temporary guardianship

In a declaration filed in the guardianship case, Batistas writes, "I have never seen any abuse from my daughter or son-in-law towards my granddaughters neither physical nor emotionally."

In the document, Batistas adds that Shanelle lived with him when she was 16 after she also accused her mother of abuse, nearly 20 years ago.

Shanelle was in the foster care system for more than two years before Batistas took custody and moved her to his home in Virginia, according to TMZ.com

Batistas ended his statement by insisting he wants to see his family reunited.