LA Judge Reinstates Marilyn Manson Sexual Assault Suit Under New Statute of Limitations Law

Lawsuit Against Marilyn Manson Reinstated Under New California Law

Los angeles, CA – A Superior Court Judge in Los Angeles has revived a civil lawsuit against musician Brian Hugh Warner, known professionally as Marilyn Manson, centering on allegations of sexual assault. The case, originally dismissed due to statute of limitations concerns, has been brought back into court thanks to a recently enacted California law.

The Case reopened

The lawsuit was initially filed in May 2021 by ashley Walters, a former assistant to the singer. It had been previously dismissed in December, as the time limit for filing such claims had expired. Though, Walters requested the court to reconsider the case following the implementation of a new law in January. This legislation established a two-year window for individuals to pursue legal action in cases of sexual assault where the original statute of limitations had passed.

Judge Steve Cochran,who initially dismissed the case,ruled on Monday that the new law effectively reinstates the claim. “I looked at this closely,” Judge cochran stated. “I do think the statute revives the claim.”

Allegations Detail Disturbing Conduct

According to the suit, Walters alleges she was sexually assaulted by Manson while working at his record label, Manson Records, between 2010 and 2011. The accusations extend beyond the alleged assault, claiming that Manson frequently boasted about acts of sexual violence and even shared a video depicting the abuse of a minor.

Legal Teams Respond

Manson’s attorney, Howard King, maintains his client’s innocence. He issued a statement asserting that the lawsuit lacks merit under the new law, stating Walters has no valid claims for sexual assault as defined by the penal code. King emphatically stated, “The undeniable fact is that Mr. Warner never committed any sexual assault.”

A History of Accusations

Manson, 57, has faced a multitude of accusations of sexual abuse and assault from several women over the years. Notable accusers include actresses Esmé Bianco and Evan Rachel Wood. A prior lawsuit filed by Bianco was settled,while Manson himself initiated a defamation suit against Wood,alleging false accusations. Significant portions of that suit were ultimately dismissed, leading Manson to drop the case and compensate Wood’s legal expenses.

In January 2025, another case alleging sexual assault and domestic violence spanning from 2009 to 2011 was also dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Earlier, a scheduled performance in the United Kingdom was canceled in 2025 following pressure from activist groups and a Member of Parliament, highlighting the public scrutiny surrounding the allegations.

Key Event	Date
Initial Lawsuit Filed	May 2021
Original Case Dismissed	December 2023
New Law Takes Effect	January 2026
Lawsuit Reinstated	january 28, 2026

The reinstatement of this lawsuit comes amid a broader societal reckoning with sexual assault and a growing movement to empower survivors. According to the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), approximately 1 in 6 American women and 1 in 33 American men experience sexual violence in their lifetime. RAINN provides crucial resources and support for survivors.

The shifting legal landscape, as exemplified by California’s new law, reflects a commitment to providing avenues for justice for victims who may have been previously barred from seeking recourse. This case will undoubtedly be closely watched as it proceeds through the courts.

Do you believe extending the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases is a necessary step towards justice? How will the conversations surrounding these cases affect the entertainment industry moving forward?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread awareness!

what impact does California’s new 24‑year statute of limitations law (AB 605) have on the reinstated lawsuit against Marilyn Manson?

LA Judge Reinstates Marilyn Manson Sexual Assault Suit Under New Statute of Limitations Law

A Los Angeles judge has delivered a significant ruling in the civil lawsuit against marilyn Manson, reinstating the case after it was previously dismissed. The decision, made on January 27, 2026, hinges on California’s recently enacted statute of limitations law for sexual assault cases, extending the timeframe for victims to pursue legal action. This growth marks a crucial turning point in the ongoing legal battles surrounding the musician, offering a renewed path to justice for accusers.

understanding the Previous Dismissal & The New Law

Initially, the lawsuit filed by Ashley Morgan and several other women was dismissed in 2024. The dismissal centered around the statute of limitations – the legal deadline for filing a civil claim. At the time, California law generally allowed a 10-year window for filing sexual assault lawsuits. Many of the alleged incidents, though, occurred outside that timeframe.

This changed dramatically with the passage of AB 605 in late 2025.This landmark legislation, frequently enough referred to as the “Revive Statute of Limitations Act,” retroactively extended the statute of limitations for sexual assault cases to 24 years from the date of the alleged offense. This retroactive application is central to the judge’s decision to reinstate the lawsuit.The law aims to address historical barriers to reporting and prosecuting sexual assault, acknowledging the trauma and often delayed reporting that characterize these cases.

Key Details of the reinstated Lawsuit

The reinstated lawsuit alleges a pattern of sexual assault, abuse, and coercion by Marilyn Manson (Brian Warner) spanning several years and involving multiple women. Specific allegations include:

* Sexual Assault: Claims of non-consensual sexual acts.

* Coercion & Manipulation: Accusations that Manson used his power and influence to manipulate and control accusers.

* False Imprisonment: Allegations of being unlawfully confined during alleged assaults.

* Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: Claims of severe emotional harm resulting from Manson’s alleged actions.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages for the alleged harm suffered, including emotional distress, medical expenses, and lost earnings.

The Judge’s Reasoning

Judge Terry Green’s ruling explicitly cited AB 605 as the basis for reinstating the case. The judge determined that the new law applied retroactively, effectively reviving claims that were previously time-barred. The ruling acknowledged the legislative intent behind AB 605 – to provide a legal avenue for survivors who were previously unable to seek justice due to the limitations of the previous statute.

The judge also addressed arguments from Manson’s legal team, who contended that retroactive application of the law was unconstitutional. The court rejected this argument,citing legal precedent supporting the state’s authority to extend statutes of limitations in cases involving serious offenses like sexual assault.

Impact on Similar Cases in California

This ruling is expected to have a ripple effect across California, potentially leading to the reinstatement of other sexual assault lawsuits that were previously dismissed due to statute of limitations issues. Legal experts predict a surge in filings as survivors, emboldened by the new law and this recent court decision, come forward with their stories.

Manson’s Response & Legal Strategy

Marilyn Manson’s legal team has indicated they will continue to vigorously defend against the allegations. Their strategy is highly likely to focus on challenging the credibility of the accusers and arguing that the alleged incidents did not occur as described. They may also pursue further appeals, challenging the constitutionality of AB 605.

The Broader Context: #MeToo and Legal Recourse

This case unfolds within the continuing context of the #MeToo movement, which has brought increased awareness to the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment.The movement has also spurred legislative changes aimed at empowering survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.AB 605 is a direct result of this momentum, reflecting a growing societal recognition of the unique challenges faced by survivors of sexual violence.

What This Means for Survivors

The reinstatement of this lawsuit sends a powerful message to survivors of sexual assault: their voices matter,and ther is a path to justice,even years after the abuse occurred. The new statute of limitations law provides a crucial window of opportunity for those who were previously silenced by time constraints. Resources are available to support survivors navigating the legal process, including:

* RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): 1-800-656-HOPE, https://www.rainn.org

* California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA): https://calcasa.org

* Legal Aid Societies: Offering free or low-cost legal assistance to survivors.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

The case will now proceed to revelation, where both sides will gather evidence, including depositions, documents, and expert testimony. A trial date has not yet been set, but legal experts anticipate a lengthy and complex legal battle. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the legal landscape surrounding sexual assault claims in California and beyond.