Evan Rachel Wood Responds to Investigation Outcome

Evan Rachel Wood has made headlines once again as she responds to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s decision not to file charges against Marilyn Manson following a four-year investigation into sexual abuse allegations. Citing the statute of limitations as a key reason for this decision, Wood expressed both gratitude and disappointment in her public message.

Wood's Statement and Advocacy for Survivors

In her heartfelt statement shared on her private Instagram, Woods conveyed her appreciation for the efforts of law enforcement. "I am endlessly proud of the more than dozen survivors who bravely shared their experiences," she noted, emphasizing the importance of their collective voices in a climate often marked by silence and stigma.

Wood indicated that she had received feedback from investigators suggesting there was compelling evidence supporting claims against Manson. However, the limitations imposed by time laws precluded the possibility of prosecution. This unfortunate framework underscores the necessity for legislative change, which prompted Wood to advocate for the creation of the Phoenix Act. In partnership with former California assembly member Eduardo Garcia and Senator Susan Rubio, the bill was successfully passed in 2020, extending the statute of limitations for domestic violence cases to five years.

“While the Phoenix Act cannot assist those affected by incidents prior to its enactment, I hope it highlights the need for ongoing advocacy for more supportive laws,” Wood remarked. Her commitment to this cause stems from her belief that evidence of violent crimes should never be subject to expiration.

Support from Other Survivors

In a show of solidarity, Esmée Bianco, another actress and alleged victim, also released a statement echoing Wood’s sentiments. Having previously sued Manson for sexual assault and arriving at a settlement two years thereafter, Bianco expressed her disappointment in the DA's verdict but acknowledged her understanding of the systemic issues at play. "In our toxic culture of victim blaming, the complexities of intimate assaults, and statutes that disregard the reality of trauma healing, prosecutions face daunting barriers," she articulated on Instagram.

Broader Implications and Calls for Reform

This case has touched a nerve in the broader conversation about sexual violence and systemic reform. Newly appointed L.A. District Attorney Nathan Hochman clarified: “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.”

As high-profile cases like this continue to unfold, the call for justice and reform echoes louder than ever. Advocates are urging society to reevaluate the legal frameworks surrounding sexual abuse to ensure that survivors' voices are not only heard but also acted upon. The fight for change is ongoing, and many believe that it's time for a legal system that truly supports and protects survivors.