After a four-year investigation, the Los Angeles D.A. decides not to file charges against Marilyn Manson, citing the statute of limitations. Wood reflects on advocacy, resilience, and the need for stronger laws.
Evan Rachel Wood Speaks Out Following Case Closure Against Marilyn Manson
Evan Rachel Wood has broken her silence following the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s announcement that no charges would be filed against her ex-fiancé, Marilyn Manson, due to the statute of limitations. In a heartfelt statement shared on her private Instagram account, Wood expressed pride in the survivors who came forward and called for continued advocacy for better legal protections for victims of abuse.
Wood, 37, initially accused Manson, born Brian Warner, of domestic abuse and sexual assault in 2021. Her accusations were part of a larger wave of allegations against the musician, leading to a four-year investigation by law enforcement. Despite compelling evidence, the D.A.’s office concluded that the incidents in question could not be prosecuted.
“My lawyer and I were advised by the Deputy District Attorneys and the Sheriff deputies who investigated the case that there was compelling evidence to support our claims, but that the statute of limitations prevents many of those crimes from being prosecuted,” Wood shared.
She added that she was not surprised by this outcome, as it reflected a key reason behind her work on the Phoenix Act—a legislative effort she spearheaded to extend the statute of limitations for domestic violence felony crimes in California. Passed in 2019, the Phoenix Act extends the statute of limitations from three years to five years and expands training for law enforcement to improve support for survivors.
“Unfortunately, the Phoenix Act cannot help in cases which occurred before it was passed,” she wrote. “But I hope this shines a light on why it’s so important to advocate for better laws.”
The Decision Not to File Charges
The D.A.’s office announced their decision on January 24, with District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman stating, “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.”
Hochman praised the courage of the women who came forward with their stories, emphasizing that their advocacy has brought critical attention to the challenges faced by survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
Wood’s Advocacy and Resilience
Wood’s activism has been a cornerstone of her response to her experiences. In addition to her work on the Phoenix Act, she has shared her story in the HBO documentary Phoenix Rising, where she accused Manson of sexual violence, including an alleged assault during the filming of a music video in 2007.
“Evidence of violent crimes should not have an expiration date,” Wood stated, expressing gratitude for law enforcement’s work and pride in the survivors who have spoken out.
Manson’s Response and Ongoing Controversy
Manson has consistently denied the allegations against him. Following the D.A.’s decision, his attorney, Howard King, called the announcement a vindication for the musician, stating, “We are very pleased that, after a thorough and incredibly lengthy review of all of the actual evidence, the District Attorney has concluded what we knew and expressed from the start—Brian Warner is innocent.”
The decision marks the conclusion of a high-profile investigation, but Manson’s legal troubles are not entirely behind him. He has faced other allegations of misconduct, including a lawsuit from actress Esmé Bianco. The Game of Thrones star accused Manson of sexual assault and battery in 2021, claiming he locked her in a bedroom, tied her up, and electrocuted her. They reached a settlement in 2023.
A Call for Change
Wood’s statement underscores the ongoing fight for justice and systemic reform. She emphasized the importance of continuing to advocate for survivors and improving the legal framework to ensure crimes of this nature do not evade accountability due to time constraints.
“I am endlessly proud of all the survivors who risked everything to protect others by speaking the truth,” Wood concluded.
For those impacted by sexual abuse, help is available. Text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 to connect with a certified crisis counselor.
Wood’s courage and commitment serve as a beacon of hope for survivors and a call to action for a society that must do better to protect them.