Kevin Spacey Not Guilty!? Gets Away Scot-free After Anthony Rapp's Sexual Misconduct Suit
After Anthony Rapp speaks out on sexual misconduct that took place when he was a minor, the jury finds Kevin Spacey not guilty.
Kevin Spacey began his acting career in theatre, eventually rising to prominence in neo-noir films in the 1980s. He has received several accolades during his career, including a Grammy Award and twelve Primetime Emmy Awards.
In a $40 million lawsuit against actor Kevin Spacey, actor Anthony Rapp accused the veteran actor of sexual misconduct from an incident that happened when Rapp was only 14 years old.
According to reports, Spacey lifted the younger Anthony Rapp "like a groom carrying a bride over the threshold" before climbing on top of him and pressing his penis on the teenager's hip. Rapp testified he was able to escape the frightening situation and hid inside the bathroom for a short time. Eventually, he was able to make a run for the front door before the older actor stopped him and asked him if he was sure he wanted to leave.
The Jury Finds Kevin Spacey Not Guilty
Anthony Rapp, alongside his lawyer, Richard Steigman, urged Kevin Spacey to pay for damages after making a sexual advance on Rapp in a Manhattan apartment after a party in 1986. During this time, Spacey was 26 years old while Rapp had only been 14 years old.
However, the sexual misconduct civil trial, which has reached its conclusion on October 20, finds Kevin Spacey not guilty. Spacey's attorney, Jennifer L. Keller, expressed their gratitude to the jury for the swift and decisive conclusion.
"Mr. Spacey is grateful to live in a country where the citizens have a right to trial by impartial jurors who make their decision based on evidence and not rumor or social media," Atty. Keller expressed in a statement.
READ ALSO : Anthony Rapp Details Disturbing Incident With Kevin Spacey During Sexual Misconduct Trial
Anthony Rapp Still Fights For Accountability
Following the verdict, Anthony Rapp took to Twitter to share the real purpose of his suit as a way to inspire the fight against silence on sexual harassment.
"Bringing this lawsuit was always about shining a light, as part of the larger movement to stand up against all forms of sexual violence," Rapp expressed. "I pledge to keep on advocating for efforts to ensure that we can live and work in a world that is free from sexual violence of any kind." He continued, "I sincerely hope that survivors continue to tell their stories and fight for accountability."
— Anthony Rapp SAG-AFTRA National Board Member (@albinokid) October 20, 2022
Additionally, Atty. Richard Steigman echoed his client's sentiments in a statement to E! News: "Anthony told his truth in court. While we respect the jury's verdict, nothing changes that."
