A multi-year investigation into rock star Marilyn Manson concerning allegations of sexual assault and domestic violence has been terminated by California prosecutors, citing that the claims exceeded the statute of limitations and could not be proven "beyond a reasonable doubt."
Four women, including model Ashley Morgan Smithline, Game of Thrones actress Esmé Bianco, and Warner's former personal assistant Ashley Walters, had filed lawsuits against Manson, whose legal name is Brian Warner, accusing him of rape, sexual assault, and physical harm.
Warner's attorney, Howard King, expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating that his client consistently asserted his innocence.
The Los Angeles County district attorney's office commended the bravery of the women who reported their experiences and cooperated with the investigation.
Despite over a dozen women making allegations against Manson, including his ex-fiancée Evan Rachel Wood, the authorities focused on incidents from 2009 to 2011 in West Hollywood, where Manson resided.
Ashley Morgan Smithline, in her testimony, revealed that Manson had repeatedly threatened her life and her well-being if she left him. Similarly, Ashley Walters described Manson as a threatening and violent employer, permitting inappropriate behavior from associates and forcing her to work prolonged hours.
Following these allegations, Manson's record label, booking agent, and manager have all cut ties with him.
Manson disputed the accusations in an Instagram post in February 2021, stating, "Obviously, my art and my life have long been magnets for controversy, but these recent claims about me are horrible distortions of reality."