As the trial against two-time Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey unfolded, prosecutors are set to present their case against the actor, who is charged with sex offences against four men. Spacey has previously denied 12 charges, including sexual assault and indecent assault. The charges range from alleged indecent assaults between 2001 and 2013 to sexual assaults and causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent. The trial is taking place at Southwark Crown Court, where a jury of 14 was selected to hear the prosecution’s opening speech.
According to Christine Agnew KC, who is set to open the case, the alleged offences occurred between 2001 and 2013. The actor pleaded not guilty in January to the charges, which include three counts of indecent assault, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent. Spacey’s lawyer, Patrick Gibbs KC, has previously stated that his client “strenuously denies any and all criminality in this case.”
The selection of the jury panel was witnessed by Spacey, who watched intently from the dock as the individuals were selected. Mr. Justice Mark Wall, the judge presiding over the trial, had previously warned prospective jurors that the case has attracted a lot of media attention, instructing them to avoid any coverage of the case. Spacey, who has an address in Waterloo, south London, and also lives in the US, has family and a dog there.
Kevin Spacey (Via @/Twitter)
The actor is known for his numerous film roles, including starring in House Of Cards, American Beauty, and The Usual Suspects. He was also the artistic director at The Old Vic theatre in London between 2004 and 2015. Spacey’s Unconditional bail ensures his release pending the outcome of the trial.
Lawyers on both sides presented their cases before the jury was selected, with Spacey’s team arguing that the prosecution has no evidence to back up the allegations. Spacey’s reputation has come under scrutiny, with the allegations against him sparking widespread discussion and debate. The trial is set to continue, with Ms. Agnew due to open the case on Friday. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain, but the proceedings are expected to shed light on the alleged incidents and the actor’s alleged wrongdoing.
