Michael Pitt Faces Criminal Charges in New York
Actor Michael Pitt, recognized for his roles in popular television series such as Boardwalk Empire and Dawson’s Creek, has been indicted on multiple charges related to severe allegations of sexual assault. According to court documents from a grand jury, the incidents reportedly occurred at his residence in Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood between April 2020 and August 2021.
Details of the Indictment
The indictment outlines a series of allegations against Pitt, who is now 44. The nine charges include:
- First-degree sexual abuse
- Criminal sexual acts
- Assault
- Attempted assault
- Strangulation
Among the specific allegations, Pitt is accused of forcibly engaging in sexual acts, with one incident reportedly involving a violent choking episode and assaults with a cinder block and a piece of lumber.
Response from Legal Representation
Pitt’s attorney, Jason Goldman, has firmly denied the allegations. He claims to possess exonerating evidence and expressed confidence that the case would be dismissed. Goldman communicated to the Associated Press, stating, “Unfortunately, we live in a world where somebody like Mr. Pitt — an accomplished professional who would never so much as contemplate these crimes — can be arrested on the uncorroborated word of an unreliable individual.”
Goldman pointed out the timing of the allegations, suggesting that they arose four to five years after the incidents when Pitt and the woman in question were involved in a consensual relationship. In a legal proceeding on Friday, Pitt pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released after posting $100,000 bail. His next court date is scheduled for June 17.
Background of Michael Pitt
Michael Pitt first garnered attention for his portrayal of Jimmy Darmody on HBO’s acclaimed drama Boardwalk Empire, which earned the ensemble cast several awards, including Screen Actors Guild Awards in 2011 and 2012. Additionally, the show secured a Golden Globe for Best Drama Series in 2011.
Pitt’s career began with significant roles in films, such as Hedwig and the Angry Inch in 2001 and Last Days, directed by Gus Van Sant in 2005. He also had a notable part in the teen drama Dawson’s Creek.
Previous Incidents
This latest legal trouble is not Pitt’s first encounter with law enforcement. Reports surfaced in 2022 of his arrest in Brooklyn for allegedly assaulting a man over a phone dispute. Following that incident, he was taken to a hospital under police escort due to a public outburst.
As the situation unfolds, Pitt’s legal team continues to prepare his defense against the serious allegations he now faces.
