Roman Polanski Set for Civil Trial Over Alleged 1973 Rape

Roman Polanski, the 90-year-old film director, is scheduled for a civil trial in Los Angeles in August 2025 concerning allegations of raping a teenager in 1973. Polanski, a fugitive in the US since 1977 after fleeing to avoid sentencing for the rape of a 13-year-old, faces charges including rape, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Renowned attorney Gloria Allred confirmed the trial date.

The accuser, identified only as Jane Doe, alleges Polanski raped her after providing her with alcohol at his Los Angeles home following a party. This upcoming trial is part of multiple accusations of sexual abuse that Polanski has faced over the years.

In a separate event, Polanski is also undergoing trial in France for allegedly defaming a British actor who accused him of abuse. The case against Polanski underscores the enduring impact of historical sexual abuse and the complexities of seeking justice in such cases.

New Hampshire Youth Detention Center Faces Legal Challenges

The New Hampshire Attorney General’s office is dealing with over 1,000 lawsuits related to abuse allegations at the Sununu Youth Services Center, with the first trial set to begin shortly. Beyond the civil lawsuits, 11 criminal cases are pending against former workers accused of abuse. This follows arrests in 2019 that brought the scandal to public attention.

The state faces the unique challenge of prosecuting alleged abusers while defending against civil lawsuits. A judge’s recent ruling allows the defense to question the credibility of accusers, a decision that has sparked legal and ethical concerns.

Allegations of abuse at the center date back nearly six decades, with claims of rape, physical violence, and emotional trauma. Many victims seek compensation through a settlement fund, while others pursue individual lawsuits. Plans are underway to close the facility and move to a smaller building as the legal proceedings and public scrutiny continue.