Prosecutors Decide Not to File Charges Against Marilyn Manson
Decision Comes After Years-Long Investigation
Prosecutors announced on Friday that they will not file charges against Marilyn Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, following a years-long investigation into allegations of sexual assault and domestic violence.
Evidence Insufficient to Meet Legal Standard
According to Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman, the allegations are too old under the law and the evidence is not sufficient to charge the 56-year-old shock rocker. Hochman stated that the allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations, and the evidence is not strong enough to prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt.
Investigation Spanned Multiple Years
The investigation began in 2020, and since then, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has been working to gather evidence and interview witnesses. In 2021, then-District Attorney George Gascón said that his office was pursuing new leads that added to the already extensive file. The investigation resumed in 2022 after the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office requested more evidence-gathering.
Victim’s Criticisms
Actress Esmé Bianco, who was a part of the criminal investigation and has accused Manson of rape, criticized the slow pace of the investigation in an interview with NBC Los Angeles. Bianco alleged that Manson had raped and abused her during their relationship and provided investigators with hundreds of pieces of evidence, including photos, emails, and text messages.
Civil Lawsuit Settlement
Manson’s civil lawsuit against actress Evan Rachel Wood, who has also accused him of abuse, was settled earlier this year. Wood and other women have accused Manson of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Manson’s Response
Manson’s attorney has not responded to requests for comment. However, Manson has previously denied the allegations, saying that they are “provably false.”
Conclusion
The decision not to file charges against Marilyn Manson marks the end of a years-long investigation into allegations of sexual assault and domestic violence. While the decision may be seen as a blow to the accusers, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has expressed gratitude for the courage and resilience of the women who came forward to share their experiences.
FAQs
Q: Why weren’t the charges filed?
A: The allegations are too old under the law, and the evidence is not sufficient to prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt.
Q: Who was involved in the investigation?
A: The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office were involved in the investigation.
Q: How long did the investigation take?
A: The investigation spanned multiple years, beginning in 2020 and concluding with the decision not to file charges in 2023.
Q: Who has accused Marilyn Manson of abuse?
A: Esmé Bianco, who is an actress and model, and Evan Rachel Wood, who is an actress, have publicly accused Marilyn Manson of abuse.
