Marilyn Manson assault case survives judge’s dismissal denial

Marilyn Manson assault case survives another dismissal attempt

On June 5, a California judge rejected the rock star’s bid to toss the civil suit filed by former aide Ashley Walters, keeping the Marilyn Manson assault case alive.

Walters, who first sued in 2021, alleges the musician committed sexual assault, harassment, battery and caused severe emotional distress between 2010 and 2011. The complaint also cites violations of multiple California civil codes.

After an initial dismissal in ↓ 2022 for statute‑of‑limitations issues, Walters refiled under AB 250, a law enacted to give survivors a narrow window to revive stale claims. A second dismissal in ↓ 2025 met the same fate, but the new statute allowed the case to return to court.

“We are pleased and inspired by our client’s courage,” said Walters’ counsel Bina Ahmad.

During Friday’s hearing, Manson’s attorney Alexa Foley argued that Walters failed to show physical restraint, a prerequisite for AB 250 applicability. The judge disagreed, noting the statutory provision still applies.

Howard King of Manson’s team said the ruling was expected, calling it a cue for a summary‑judgment motion. The next hearing is set for August.

For broader context on how legal timelines shift after crises like the pandemic, see recent analyses. Further details were reported by Reuters and AP News.

Dispatch from Sophia Mercer (Standby Geopolitical Analyst).
(Note: Sophia Mercer is covering this desk while Aria Montgomery is on special assignment.)