Judge dismisses Marilyn Manson's sexual assault lawsuit filed by former assistant

Judge dismisses Marilyn Manson sexual assault lawsuit filed by former assistant

Judge Steve Cochran ruled that Walters’ claims, filed about 10 years after the alleged incidents, fell outside the statute of limitations. Walters had argued that her memories of the alleged abuse had been suppressed and should be considered under the delayed discovery rule.

“I’m not able to find that the delayed discovery rule is applicable,” the judge said, adding that he lacked the authority to apply it under these circumstances.

As per Rolling Stones, Walters’ lawyer, Kate McFarlane, said her client intends to appeal. “We think this is the wrong decision. The delayed discovery rule exists to allow victims to seek justice when their abuser used tactics to prevent them from coming forward.”

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In her lawsuit, Walters alleged that Manson lured her into a job in 2010 under the guise of artistic collaboration, before allegedly subjecting her to physical and sexual abuse.

She also claimed to have witnessed Manson allegedly assaulting his former fiancée, Evan Rachel Wood. Manson has denied all allegations.

Manson’s lawyer, Howard King, called the ruling a vindication. “It’s gratifying that a judge looked at the facts and saw that Brian Warner was wrongfully accused,” he said.

During the hearing, Walters’ lawyer emphasised the power imbalance between Walters, in her twenties, and Manson, then in his forties, likening it to dynamics seen in child sexual abuse cases, where victims’ memories can remain repressed for years.

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Walters first came forward in February 2021, amid a wave of allegations against Manson by multiple women, including Evan Rachel Wood. Her lawsuit was initially dismissed in May 2022 but later revived on appeal before Tuesday’s ruling.