UPDATING LIVE: The trial of Kevin Spacey, known for his roles in “American Beauty,” “House of Cards,” and “Se7en,” began today with a prosecutor describing him as a “sexual bully” who “sexually assaults other men.” The prosecutor, Christina Agnew KC, told the jury that Spacey’s preferred method of assault is aggressively grabbing other men in the crotch. She also revealed that there was an incident where things went further than that. Spacey denies the 12 charges against him, including sexual assault and indecent assault, allegedly committed between 2001 and 2013.
Agnew emphasized that the four men who will testify during the trial, all in their 20s or 30s, did not want to be touched by Spacey in a sexual way. She accused Spacey of disregarding their feelings and acting solely for his own sexual gratification. Spacey’s defense claims that some allegations are fabricated while acknowledging that there were consensual sexual encounters with other men.
Describing Spacey as a man who “does not respect personal boundaries or space” and “delights in making others feel powerless and uncomfortable,” Agnew labeled him a sexual bully. Spacey arrived at Southwark Crown Court looking calm, and although he is expected to appear throughout the trial, it is uncertain if he will take the stand.
In a previous court hearing, Spacey’s lawyer stated that his client vehemently denies any criminality in this case. Spacey himself expressed confidence that he will be cleared of the charges and mentioned potential job opportunities awaiting him once he is exonerated.
Before the jury panel was selected, the judge acknowledged that many prospective jurors would be familiar with Spacey’s name and films. He urged them to avoid media coverage of the case. Spacey has an address in Waterloo, south London, but also resides in the U.S. with his family and dog.
The trial continues.
