Los Angeles (United States) (AFP) – The top prosecutor in Los Angeles said Friday that his office will not bring charges against goth rocker Marilyn Manson, who has been accused of sexual assault and domestic violence. Following “a comprehensive four-year investigation,” prosecutors determined that “allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations,” said a statement from Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. “And we cannot prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt,” it added.
Manson has faced allegations from multiple women, including his ex-fiancee, the actress Evan Rachel Wood, and Esme Bianco, who featured in “Game of Thrones.” Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has denied wrongdoing. He filed court proceedings in 2022 against Wood for conspiracy, fraud and defamation after she accused him of raping her, but later dropped the civil suit.
The 56-year-old musician has long cultivated a controversial image with his ghostly make-up and stage name evoking serial killer Charles Manson, one of the most notorious criminals in US history. “While we are unable to bring charges in this matter, we recognize that the strong advocacy of the women involved has helped bring greater awareness to the challenges faced by survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault,” Hochman’s office said in a statement.
Manson is currently on a global tour. Hours after the prosecutor’s statement was released, he announced on Instagram that the tour would include shows in the United States.
© 2024 AFP
