Brooklyn, New York — Actor Michael Pitt, recognized for his roles in television series such as “Boardwalk Empire” and “Dawson’s Creek,” is facing serious legal issues following a recent grand jury indictment. The charges allege that Pitt sexually abused, assaulted, and choked his former girlfriend over a period extending from April 2020 to August 2021.
Pitt, 44, was arrested on Friday in Brooklyn in connection with the indictment, which includes nine felony counts. Among these are two counts of first-degree sexual abuse, along with charges of second-degree assault and second-degree strangulation. After pleading not guilty to the allegations, Pitt secured his release on $100,000 bail and is expected to appear in court again on June 17.
Pitt’s attorney, Jason Goldman, has publicly dismissed the allegations, asserting that they are unfounded and stem from unreliable testimony. Goldman expressed concern over the timing of the claims, suggesting they arise years after the alleged incidents while the couple was in a consensual relationship. He stated that evidence supporting Pitt’s innocence has already been compiled, emphasizing his belief that the case will ultimately be dismissed.
According to the indictment, the charges are related to several disturbing incidents. The first action alleged took place in April 2020 when Pitt reportedly touched the complainant inappropriately. In a troubling escalation, the documents indicate that Pitt forced oral sex on the woman in August 2020 and assaulted her with a wooden plank. The indictment further details an incident in June 2021 where he allegedly attacked her with a cinder block and a separate occasion in August 2021 when he choked her.
A spokesperson for the Kings County district attorney’s office has chosen not to comment on the ongoing case, which has drawn significant attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and Pitt’s public profile.
Best known for his portrayal of Jimmy Darmody in the acclaimed HBO series “Boardwalk Empire,” Pitt has also appeared in various other television series, including “Hannibal” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” His film credits encompass productions such as “Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” “The Dreamers,” and “Ghost in the Shell.”
As the legal process unfolds, the developments in this case are likely to continue to capture public interest, especially given the high stakes involved for both the actor and the alleged victim.