The trial of Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey, accused of sex offences against four men, has begun at Southwark Crown Court. As the prosecution prepares to present its case, Spacey has maintained his innocence, denying a total of 12 charges including sexual assault and indecent assault. The alleged crimes were committed between 2001 and 2013, with three counts of indecent assault, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of causing a person to engage in sexual activity without consent. The actor’s legal team has also denied four further charges of sexual assault and one count of causing a person to engage in penetrative sexual activity without consent.
As the trial got underway, the judge, Mr Justice Mark Wall, reminded the jury panel of the importance of remaining impartial and avoiding media coverage of the case. He also warned them that Spacey is a well-known actor, having starred in films such as House Of Cards, American Beauty, and The Usual Suspects, and that his reputation as an actor is not relevant to the case. The allegations against Spacey are that he committed the offenses at various locations in London, including Southwark and Lambeth, and at his home in Waterloo, south London.
Kevin Spacey (Via Kevin Spacey/Twitter)
Throughout the trial, Spacey has been attending court, often smiling and waving to well-wishers and photographers. His legal team and the prosecution have been preparing for the trial, which is expected to last several weeks. The trial will continue on Friday with Christine Agnew KC opening the case for the prosecution. Spacey, who is out on unconditional bail, has an address in Waterloo, south London, where he is often seen with his dog. He also spends time in the US, where he has family and is said to be close to his family.
As the trial unfolds, it is expected to be a highly charged and intense experience, with Spacey’s legal team working to discredit the allegations against him. The prosecution, on the other hand, will be seeking to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Spacey committed the offences. The outcome of the trial will have significant consequences for Spacey’s reputation and his future in the entertainment industry.
