Goth rocker Marilyn Manson is not being charged over the numerous accusations of sexual assault and domestic violence, prosecutors announced Friday.
The decision not to charge “the Fight Song” singer — real name Brian Warner — followed “a comprehensive four-year investigation” by “experienced prosecutors” and detectives, new Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said.
“We have determined that allegations of domestic violence fall outside of the statute of limitations, and we cannot prove charges of sexual assault beyond a reasonable doubt,” he said.
The 56-year-old singer had been accused of rape, sexual assault and torture by at least a dozen women, including his former fiancee, actor Evan Rachel Wood.
“We recognize and applaud the courage and resilience of the women who came forward to make reports and share their experiences, and we thank them for their cooperation and patience with the investigation,” Hochman said.
“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,” he said.
“Despite the decision necessitated by the facts and evidence in this matter, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office remains fully committed to seeking justice for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault whenever legally possible,” Hochman said.
“We encourage anyone experiencing abuse to seek support and make a report to law enforcement as quickly as possible.”
Manson does not appear to have immediately addressed the decision.