The dismissal of domestic violence and sexual assault charges against musician Marilyn Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has sparked a renewed discussion about statutes of limitations and the challenges faced by survivors of abuse. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the closure of a four-year investigation into allegations made by actress Evan Rachel Wood and several other women, citing the expiration of the statute of limitations for domestic violence charges and insufficient evidence to prove sexual assault charges beyond a reasonable doubt. While acknowledging the courage of the women who came forward, the decision underscores the legal hurdles that often prevent survivors from seeking justice for past abuse.
Wood, who had publicly accused Manson of grooming and abusing her during their three-year relationship, responded to the news with a statement on her private Instagram account. She expressed her understanding of the statute of limitations as a barrier to prosecution, referencing her own instrumental role in advocating for the Phoenix Act in California. This legislation extended the statute of limitations for domestic violence cases from three to five years and mandated increased police training on domestic abuse. However, the Phoenix Act, passed in 2019, couldn’t be applied retroactively to her case, which predated the law. Wood emphasized the importance of advocating for legal reform to prevent similar outcomes for other survivors, highlighting the injustice of evidence of violent crimes having an "expiration date."
Wood’s allegations against Manson, first made publicly in February 2021, detailed years of alleged horrific abuse, manipulation, and brainwashing. She stated her motivation for coming forward was to protect others from Manson and to expose the industries that she claimed enabled his behavior. Her accusations followed earlier allusions to sexual assault in a 2016 interview with Rolling Stone, where she described being raped by a significant other and a bar owner, without naming the perpetrators at the time.
The dismissal of charges against Manson concludes a complex legal battle that included a defamation lawsuit filed by the musician against Wood. Manson’s suit, initiated in March 2022 shortly before the release of the HBO documentary miniseries Phoenix Rising, which featured Wood’s allegations, claimed defamation and emotional distress. The documentary provided a platform for Wood to detail her experiences with Manson, further amplifying the public discourse surrounding the allegations. However, in a significant turn of events, Manson abandoned the lawsuit in November 2024 and agreed to pay Wood approximately $327,000 in legal fees.
This case highlights the complexities of pursuing legal action in cases of historical abuse. The statute of limitations, designed to protect defendants from stale claims where evidence may be lost or memories faded, can also create significant barriers for survivors. The passage of time, especially in cases involving trauma and manipulation, can make it difficult for survivors to come forward immediately. Wood’s advocacy for the Phoenix Act demonstrates a growing recognition of the need for legal reforms that better address the realities of domestic violence and sexual assault.
The dismissal of charges against Manson does not negate the experiences of Wood and other accusers. Their courage in coming forward has contributed to a broader conversation about accountability for abuse and the need for continued legal and societal change. The case underscores the importance of providing support and resources for survivors, regardless of legal outcomes, and the ongoing need for education and awareness surrounding domestic violence and sexual assault. The inclusion of the National Sexual Assault Hotline information in the original article further emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support for those affected by such trauma. It serves as a reminder that resources are available for survivors, and encourages anyone affected by sexual abuse to reach out for confidential and judgment-free assistance.
