In another blow to sexual assault survivors, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced it will not file charges against film producer David Guillod. Guillod has been accused of at least 15 sex crimes, committed on six different women, in the past two decades. Counts include rape, kidnap to rape, rape of a drugged victim, rape of an unconscious person, sexual penetration of an unconscious person, sexual penetration of an intoxicated person by a foreign object, sodomy, and more.
The producer behind “Extraction” and “Atomic Blonde” was arrested in October 2020. He was charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault involving victims in L.A. and Santa Barbara counties. Judges in Santa Barbara County have already dismissed the charges brought forth by four of the victims due to insufficient evidence.
However, they did find sufficient evidence for a trial involving an alleged attack on actress Jessica Barth (“Ted”). And another alleged case of rape and sodomy of an unidentified L.A. waitress. This ruling left these two remaining victims at the mercy of the L.A. County courts.
Sexual Assault Charges Dismissed
On March 21st, L.A. D.A. Nathan Hochman said his office is “unable to prove sexual assault allegations against David Guillod beyond a reasonable doubt.”
“The allegations involve deeply troubling and concerning behavior, and we empathize with the pain and trauma the accusers have experienced throughout this long investigative process,” reads Hochman’s release. “Please know that our decision in this matter does not undermine the seriousness of the allegations, but instead reflects the high legal burden our office faces in proving criminal charges beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Insultingly, Hochman’s “hope is that the example of these women will inspire victims of sexual abuse to seek support and report abuse as soon as possible.” Yeah, because this and dropping charges against Marilyn Manson while admitting there is sufficient evidence REALLY makes victims feel they will get justice.
Most people can figure out that the more the legal system lets victims down, the less they will come forward. No one wants to be put through a trial where they have to relive the worst thing that has ever happened to them over and over just to watch their attacker walk free.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse help is available. RAINN is confidential and offers several avenues for help including providing contact information for local resources.
