God
2003-08-17 04:21:13 UTC
Hall of Shame
Alberto Acciarito
In March 1998, Italian film director Alberto Acciarito was convicted
of harassing his ex-wife, Ingrid Rossellini. Acciarito was found
guilty of making several threatening calls last fall to the daughter
of Italian director Roberto Rossellini and award winning actress
Ingrid Bergman.
Steven Adler
Drummer Steven Adler of the rock group Guns N' Roses pleaded no
contest to attacking two women he had dated. Adler was also in
violation of his probation from a 1997 domestic violence conviction.
He was sentenced to 150 days in jail, a year of counseling, and was
placed on three years summary probation.
Courtney Alexander
In July 1997, twenty-year-old University of Virginia basketball star
Courtney Alexander was arrested and charged with hitting, choking and
kicking his girlfriend, Joiel Coleman. Police who answered Coleman's
911 call found her with a bruised face and cut lip. Alexander claimed
the incident was a "misunderstanding." The county magistrate released
Alexander on $2,000 bond and issued Coleman an emergency protection
order. The couple has one child.
Rick Allen
Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen pleaded guilty to spousal battery for
assaulting his wife in 1995. Allen was sentenced to probation,
domestic violence counseling and mandatory attendance at Alcoholics
Anonymous meetings. He also must pay for a public service announcement
in which he admits he is a batterer and urges other batterers to seek
counseling.
Gianluigi Assento
In January 1999, Gianluigi Assenato, an Italian fashion designer who
has designed dresses for actresses attending the Academy Awards,
pleaded guilty to stalking his former girlfriend, actress Andrea
Thompson, who plays Detective Jill Kirkendall on NYPD Blue. A Los
Angeles judge sentenced Assenato to two years in prison and also
mandated that he be deported upon completion of his jail term.
Assenato was accused of slashing Thompson's car tires and threatening
both Thompson and her child.
Pedro Astacio
In March 2000, Colorado Rockies' pitcher Pedro Astacio faced
deportation by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
because he pleaded guilty to an assault charge, reports Associated
Press. Astacio, a native of the Dominican Republic, was accused of
punching his estranged wife. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge
of third-degree assault involving domestic violence. Under a federal
law that many battered women's advocates oppose, the INS can deport
immigrants who have been convicted of domestic violence charges.
Astacio's lawyers are working to have his guilty plea withdrawn.
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
WWE Professional wrestler "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, whose real name
is Steve Williams, turned himself in to police on charges of
assaulting his wife, fellow WWE performer Debra Williams. In June
2002, Debra Williams called police to the couple's house in San
Antonio, and police saw a "large noticeable welt" beneath her right
eye, reports Entertainment Weekly. Austin was not at the house when
police arrived and he was not arrested. In August 2002, Austin turned
himself in, posted $5,000 bond, and was released pending future legal
action.
Robert Blake
Actor Robert Blake was charged with murdering his wife, Bonny Lee
Bakely, and attempting to hire hit men to murder Bakely, among other
counts. In May, 2002, prosecutors announced that they will ask for a
sentence of life in prison without parole instead of the death
penalty. Bakely's four children have filed a wrongful-death suit
against Blake in Los Angeles Superior Court.
Riddick Bowe
In February 2001, former heavyweight boxing champion Riddick Bowe was
arrested and charged with third-degree assault for a fight with his
wife, Terri Bowe. Police arrived at the Bowe house on Long Island and
found Terri Bowe "suffering from cuts and bruises," according to the
Associated Press. Riddick Bowe pleaded innocent to charges of
assaulting his wife, and was released from jail on $2,500 bail. The AP
reports that the couple is "splitting up after a very brief
marriage.'"
Teako Brown and Johnie Church
Two Florida Gators (college football players) each received a one-game
suspension in August 1995 for "conduct detrimental to the university."
Senior defensive end Johnie Church was charged with battery for
abusing his wife, and freshman safety Teako Brown was charged with
aggravated battery for hitting his girlfriend.
Jim Brown
Jim Brown, a member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame and a
former running back for the Cleveland Browns, was sentenced to three
years probation in October 1999, and was ordered to undergo domestic
violence counseling for smashing his wife's car. Brown also was fined
$100, and ordered to pay $1,500 to a battered women's shelter and $200
to a domestic violence fund.
Jim Brown
Former National Football League star Jim Brown was released from
prison in July 2002 after serving time for vandalizing his wife's car.
Brown received a six-month sentence after he refused to undergo
court-ordered domestic violence counseling and community service.
Brown was convicted in 1999 of vandalism for defacing Monique Brown's
car. He was acquitted of the charge of making a terrorist threat
against Monique Brown after threatening to kill her during an
argument. Brown served four-months of his six-month sentence.
Sean Burke
In February 1998, former Hurricanes hockey player Sean Burke pleaded
guilty to beating his wife on November 2 and was ordered to complete a
domestic violence program within the next six months after and pay a
$200 fine. Burke was on probation for the next 18 months. Burke was
traded to the Vancouver Canucks shortly after.
Gary Busey
Actor Gary Busey was charged with misdemeanor spousal battery in March
1999 after his wife, Tiani, called the police to their Malibu home.
Busey starred in The Buddy Holly Story, Lethal Weapon and The Firm.
Joe Carollo, Mayor of Miami
In February 2001, Miami Mayor Joe Carollo was arrested and charged
with battery for allegedly hitting his wife, Maria Ledon Carollo, with
a teapot. Police arrived at the Carollo home and reported that Ledon
Carollo suffered a "golf ball-sized lump" and a bruise on the side of
her head, and Carollo suffered two scratches on his neck. Ledon
Carollo, who filed for divorce three months before the incident,
declined to file charges, but police filed them anyway. In a
statement, Ledon Carollo said she was "completely opposed to any
further involvement in the legal system in this very personal
situation." Carollo has been released from jail on $1,500 bond.
Battery is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of one year
in jail, but lawyers said it "was more likely" that Carollo's
punishment would be to attend anger-management classes, reports the
New York Times.
Rae Carruth
In January 2001, Rae Carruth was found not guilty of the murder of his
girlfriend Cherica Adams, but guilty of conspiracy to commit murder.
The jury acquitted Carruth of first-degree murder, but found him
guilty of three other felony charges: conspiracy to commit murder,
shooting into an occupied vehicle, and using an instrument with intent
to kill an unborn child. Carruth could face up to 25 years in prison.
Carruth was originally charged with hiring three men to shoot Adams in
a drive-by shooting. Adams, who was pregnant at the time of the
attack, slipped into a coma and then died after giving birth to a son,
who is in the custody of her parents. The jury's finding of "not
guilty" of first-degree murder spares Carruth the death penalty.
Duane Causwell
In December 1994, then-Sacramento Kings player Duane Causwell was
released on bail after being arrested for spousal abuse. From a
neighbor's home, Leslie Causwell told sheriff's deputies that her
basketball star husband had beaten her and prevented her from calling
for help. As sheriff's deputies waited, Leslie went home to get the
couple's baby. When Duane restrained her as she tried to leave home
with the infant, police arrested him.
Raphel Cherry
In February 2001, former professional football player Raphel Cherry
was convicted a second time in the 1998 strangulation of his estranged
wife, Jerri Harris Cherry. Judge Chris Piazza sentenced Cherry to 30
years in prison last month. Harris Cherry was found dead in her home
in December of 1998, and prosecutors claimed that Raphel Cherry killed
his wife because she was pursuing a divorce. He had previously been
convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, but
a judge overturned that conviction after jurors admitted they had
violated the judge's orders by talking about the case before
deliberations.
Bobby Chouinard
In February 2000, Bobby Chouinard, a professional baseball player for
the Colorado Rockies, was sentenced to one year in jail and four years
of probation for terrorizing his wife, Erica Chouinard. Bobby was
indicted in January for physically abusing his wife, holding a loaded
gun to her head, and threatening to kill her at their home in Phoenix.
Before the sentencing, Erica said her husband did not hold a gun to
her head and that she lied to the police. Bobby, who will continue to
play baseball for the Rockies, will be jailed in Colorado for
three-month periods when the sport is not in season. The court also
ordered him to attend weekly counseling sessions, participate in an
offender program, donate $25,000 to a local domestic violence charity,
and become a spokesperson against domestic violence.
Eric Clapton
On April 16, 1999, members of the National Task Force on Violence
Against Women protested outside Eric Clapton's live performance in
Washington, D.C. The demonstration was held to protest the lyrics of a
new song, Sick & Tired: "I'm gonna get me a shotgun, baby, and stash
it behind the bedroom door. I may have to blow your brains out, baby.
Then you won't bother me no more." "That Eric Clapton could be so
oblivious to [domestic violence and violent language toward women] is
disheartening," Boston Herald columnist Margery Eagan wrote. "That few
reviewers have even mentioned the violence is worse." Read an op-ed by
FVPF Executive Director Esta Soler on the Clapton song and its impact.
Stan Collymore
In July 1998, British soccer star Stan Collymore received a strong
message that there is no excuse for domestic violence. Collymore was
harshly criticized by the media for allegedly hitting his girlfriend,
TV personality Ulrika Jonsson, the day before the World Cup games. He
also lost his $4 million contract with Diadora sportswear.
Wilfredo Cordero
Baseball star Wilfredo Cordero pleaded guilty to assaulting his wife
in November 1997. His wife refused to testify against him, though he
threatened to kill her while police were arresting him on June 11,
1997 for choking and beating her.
Def Leppard
Two band players from the group Def Leppard were arrested for spousal
assault. On May 5, 1996, police arrested lead singer Joe Elliott and
his girlfriend, Bobbie Tolsma, on assault charges. Although Tolsma
called the hotel's front desk to report Elliott was beating her,
police arrested both of them because they sustained "mutual injuries."
On May 9, 1996, prosecutors refiled a spousal abuse charge against
drummer Rick Allen for attacking his wife last year in an airport.
Allen was required to enter substance abuse counseling in lieu of
prosecution, but failed to appear for sessions.
Dale Ellis
Former Seattle SuperSonics basketball player Dale Ellis pleaded guilty
to a charge of domestic violence in February 2002. Ellis was arrested
in January after hitting his wife, Monique, during an argument.
Monique Ellis suffered minor injuries to her face and fingers as a
result of the incident, reports Ellis was charged with domestic
violence assault, a gross misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty
of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Thirteen years ago, Ellis was
convicted of assaulting his wife and resisting arrest.
Dale Ellis
Former Seattle SuperSonics basketball player Dale Ellis pleaded guilty
to a charge of domestic violence in March 2002. Ellis was arrested in
January after hitting his wife, Monique, during an argument. Monique
Ellis suffered minor injuries to her face and fingers as a result of
the incident, reports USA Today. Ellis was charged with domestic
violence assault, a gross misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty
of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Thirteen years ago, Ellis was
convicted of assaulting his wife and resisting arrest.
Eminem
Eminem, 26, is a critically acclaimed and extremely popular rap
musician who has courted controversy throughout his highly successful
career. Marshall Mathers LP was the second-best-selling album of 2000,
behind N Sync's No Strings Attached. Marshall Mathers LP sold 7.9
million copies in the United States alone. Wife abuse, murder, rape,
and other forms of violence against women and gay people are
consistent themes throughout the music of Eminem, who is easily the
most popular white rapper ever. On both his albums, he performs songs
about murdering his wife, Kim. Last year, Eminem filed for divorce
from his wife, who tried to commit suicide. They then reportedly
reconciled. He has written lyrics in which he fantasizes about raping
his mother, who is suing him for these and other inflammatory lyrics
about her. Eminem also was arrested for attacking a bartender with a
gun; he said he believed the bartender had flirted with his wife.
Scott Erickson
Baltimore Orioles baseball player Scott Erickson was charged with
second-degree assault in 2002 after a fight with his live-in
girlfriend, Lisa Ortiz. After Ortiz accused Erickson of cheating on
her, he grabbed her and threw her out of their apartment. Police say
that Ortiz attempted to get back into the apartment and bit Erickson
while trying to do so. He then threw her into an elevator. Ortiz said
in a statement, "This is a private matter between Scott and
myself Scott has never been physically abusive toward me, and in no
way do I feel threatened." Charges against Erickson were eventually
dropped.
Adam Farrar
In April 2000, Adam Farrar, the step-brother of Titanic actor Leonardo
DiCaprio, was arrested and faced charges of attempted murder and
making terrorist threats against his girlfriend. Police officers
responded to a report of domestic violence at Farrar's girlfriend's
house. Her name has not been released.
Mark Gastineau
In September 2000, Former New York Jets football player Mark Gastineau
was sentenced to 18 months in jail for failing to complete an
anger-management course after hitting his estranged wife, Patricia
Schorr. In 1998, Gastineau plead guilty to a misdemeanor assault
charge and was ordered to spend a year in a treatment center.
Prosecutors claim he did not fulfill his sentence, and left the
program after about four months.
Ahman Green
In May 2002, Shalynn Green received an order of protection against her
husband, Ahman Green, a professional football player with the Green
Bay Packers. Shalynn Green accused Ahman Green of threatening her and
beating her twice while she was pregnant, reports USA Today. The order
requires Ahman Green to stay away from his wife's home and their
children's day care center; the judge also granted temporary custody
to Shalynn Green. In March, police cited both Shalynn and Ahman Green
on suspicion of disturbing the peace after an argument that left Ahman
Green with a cut lip, according to USA Today.
Tanya Harding
In March 2000, Former Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding pleaded not
guilty to charges that she hit her boyfriend, Darren Silver, in the
face with a hubcap and her fists. If convicted of a misdemeanor
assault charge, Harding could face up to a year in prison and a $5,000
fine. Harding told officers that she hit Silver in an effort to
protect herself, but police say witnesses do not support her
statement. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for March 8.
Richard Hatch
Survivor I winner Richard Hatch was found guilty in September 2001, of
domestic assault. Hatch was sentenced to one year of probation for an
August incident in which he allegedly shoved his ex-boyfriend, Glenn
Boyanowski, down a flight of stairs. Hatch intends to appeal the
verdict.
John Heard
In April 1997, "Home Alone" and "The Sopranos" actor John Heard was
convicted in Baltimore of telephone misuse and trespassing but
acquitted of harassing his former girlfriend and assaulting her
current boyfriend. Heard was accused of calling his ex-girlfriend's
home several times a day, peeping into windows in the house, and
hitting her boyfriend. In 1994, a judge denied Heard custody of the
couple's child because the judge felt Heard lacked the "temperament in
parenting skills" and had physically abused his partner in the past.
Allen Iverson
A judge dismissed 12 of the 14 charges against Philadelphia 76ers
basketball player Allen Iverson during the first day of his trial in
July 2002. Iverson had plead not guilty to all of the 14 charges that
stemmed from an incident in which he broke into his cousin's apartment
with a gun and made threatening statements while searching for his
wife, Tawanna Iverson, following a domestic dispute. Reports claim
that, after fighting with his wife, Iverson threw her out of their
house. Some reports claim she was naked or in her underwear at the
time, and that Allen Iverson took the action because he thought she
was having an affair. The judge dropped most of the charges after
contradictory testimony from three witnesses in the case.
Mike Jacobs
Ohio State University assistant football coach Mike Jacobs was
arrested for allegedly beating his ex-wife on January 16, 1999.
Jacobs' former wife claims that he hit her several times in the face,
pulled her by her hair and shoved her against his car. Ohio State
University had temporarily placed Jacobs on paid administrative leave
pending resolution of the charges.
David Jaye, State Senator
In May 2001, state Senators are moving to expel Senator David Jaye
(R-Washington Township), who was arrested on charges of domestic
battery. Jaye was arrested and spent a night in jail earlier this
month in Florida after a dispute with his fiancée. A bipartisan Senate
panel will investigate Jaye's offenses and recommend whether he should
be expelled from the Senate. In the past, a felony conviction has been
required for lawmakers to consider expelling a member, but Senate
Majority Leader Dan DeGrow (R-Post Huron) said Jaye may no longer be
fit to serve because of his misdemeanor offenses and "pattern of
behavior over time," reports the Detroit News. Last year, Jaye served
35 days in prison for drunk driving. "Thirty years ago, it was
acceptable to drive drunk and slap around women," DeGrow told the
Chicago Tribune. "What was acceptable in the good old boy network 30
years ago isn't acceptable now."
Jason Kidd
In March 2001, professional basketball player Jason Kidd of the
Phoenix Suns will not be prosecuted on domestic violence assault
charges. He was arrested in January during a domestic dispute with his
wife, Joumana. Kidd has agreed to undergo domestic violence counseling
for at least six months, pay a $200 fine and not commit a crime for
one year. The National Basketball Association also has decided not to
discipline Kidd.
Gordon Kimbrough
On February 1, 1995, former bodybuilding champion Gordon Kimbrough was
convicted of first degree murder for fatally stabbing his fiancee,
Kristy Ramsey. Gordon murdered Ramsey shortly after she told him she
wanted to break off their relationship. Friends said it appeared to be
a perfect marriage. Gordon was scheduled for sentencing on March 15,
1995.
Tawny Kitaen
Professional baseball player Chuck Finley filed for divorce from
actress Tawny Kitaen, after Kitaen was charged in 2002 with spousal
abuse and battery. Finley also obtained a temporary restraining order
against Kitaen that prevents her from seeing him or the couple's two
daughters. Kitaen was arrested after a third party called police to
the couple's house, and police noticed abrasions and scrapes on
Finley, who plays for the Cleveland Indians.
Evel Knievel
On October 9, 1994, former motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel was
arrested for allegedly battering a woman. Due to lack of evidence, the
domestic violence charges were dropped but he was charged with
possession of a handgun that was found in his car during the arrest.
Knievel pleaded innocent to violating the gun law.
Bill Kreutzmann
During a plea bargain in June 1997, Grateful Dead drummer Bill
Kreutzmann pleaded no contest to one count of assaulting his former
girlfriend. He was originally charged with several counts of assault.
Kreutzmann was jailed for two days, required to perform community
service, pay his ex-girlfriend's medical bills, and abstain from drugs
and alcohol.
Sergei Krivokrasov
Sergei Krivokrasov, a hockey player on the Nashville Predators, was
ordered to undergo counseling as a part of an agreement for dismissal
of a domestic violence charge brought by his wife, Natalia
Krivokrasov. Natalia Krivokrasov reported that her husband kicked and
slapped her, pulled out her hair and pushed her down the stairs
following an argument.
Deidra Lane
In July 2000, Deidra Lane shot and killed her husband, professional
football player Fred Lane, during what Charlotte-Mecklenburg police
describe as a "domestic dispute." To date, charges have not been filed
against Deidra Lane. In March, Lane filed a complaint against her
husband, who played football for the Carolina Panthers and the
Indianapolis Colts, alleging that he grabbed a necklace from her neck
during an argument, causing her to fall. She did not press charges at
the time. Fred Lane's father reports that, before the shooting, the
couple had been having "difficulties." The couple has a newborn baby
and a five-year-old son.
Tracy Lawrence
In January 1998, country music singer Tracy Lawrence was convicted of
abusing his estranged wife, who accused Lawrence of hitting her and
making death threats after his September 12, 1997 concert. Lawrence,
known for his hits "Time Marches On," "Sticks and Stones," and "Any
Fool Can See," acknowledged he slapped her but denied punching her.
They are in the process of divorcing.
Art Long
On October 14, 1995 University of Cincinnati basketball player Art
Long was arrested for allegedly choking Yvette Lanton, his girlfriend.
Lanton had a restraining order against Long, prohibiting him from
approaching her. Long has a previous conviction for selling marijuana
to an undercover cop and has a charge pending for assaulting a police
horse during a fight.
Trini Lopez
Entertainer Trini Lopez, known for his 1960s hit song "If I Had a
Hammer" and co-starring in "The Dirty Dozen," was charged with a
misdemeanor for allegedly beating Rose Mihata, his former girlfriend
in November 1995. Mihata's lawyer, Gloria Allred, was angered that
Lopez received only one misdemeanor charge, instead of two felony
charges as the police recommended. The prosecutor responded that
Mihata's injuries were not severe enough and Lopez did not have a
prior criminal record.
Andrew Luster
In February 2003, Andrew Luster was sentenced to 124 years in state
prison and ordered to pay one million dollars in restitution for
drugging and raping three women. Luster, heir to the Max Factor
cosmetic fortune, was convicted in absentia in Ventura County Superior
Court on 86 counts, including sodomy, rape and poisoning. Luster's
whereabouts are unknown. He has been on the run since he disappeared
on January 3, 2003 after being released on a million dollars bail.
Sasha Mitchell
In December 1996, actor Sasha Mitchell of the ABC sitcom "Step By
Step" was sentenced to six months in jail. Mitchell's probation was
revoked because he violated its terms by moving out of state. He has
repeatedly battered his wife.
John Montefusco
In February 2000, John Montefusco, a former professional baseball
player, was sentenced to three years of probation for criminal
trespass and simple assault against his former wife, Doris Montefusco.
In November, a jury acquitted Montefusco of sexually assaulting his
former wife. Montefusco says he plans to appeal his sentence, reports
the New York Times.
Warren Moon
After deliberating for just half an hour, a jury acquitted Minnesota
Vikings quarterback Warren Moon of assaulting his wife, Felicia. The
incident occurred in July 1995 at the couple's home, and their
terrified seven-year-old son called the police. Felicia Moon
originally told police that she had been beaten by her husband; she
had visible injuries. She later insisted to police and to the jury
that she had struck first and her husband was merely trying to
restrain her. Prosecutors had used a controversial new Texas law to
force Felicia to testify against her husband. In interviews after the
verdict, the Moons declined to criticize the law, saying simply that
it was mis-used in their case. Prosecutors disagreed.
Harry Morgan
In July 1997, spousal abuse charges against M*A*S*H star Harry Morgan
were dropped after he completed a six-month domestic violence
counseling program. Morgan was charged with abusing his wife in July
1996 after an argument that left his wife with injuries to her eye,
foot and arm.
James Orr
Producer-director James Orr was sentenced to three years' probation
for choking his ex-girlfriend Farrah Fawcett and slamming her head to
the ground in 1998. Orr had faced a maximum penalty of one year in
prison and a $6,000 fine.
Ruben Patterson
Some basketball fans in Portland are boycotting Trail Blazers' games
because several players on the team have been arrested. Forward Ruben
Patterson, a registered sex offender, was arrested after his wife,
Shannon, reported to police that her husband had assaulted her.
Charges were later dismissed after Shannon Patterson asked prosecutors
to drop the case. The Trail Blazers organization fined Patterson
$100,000 for the incident. Two other players, Rasheed Wallace and
Damon Stoudamire, were arrested on marijuana possession charges. One
fan posted a billboard in downtown Portland that reads, "Boycott
Blazers we need a team that can beat L.A., not women and the justice
system," reports the Washington Post.
Lawrence Phillips
In September 1996, University of Nebraska football star, Lawrence
Phillips, was placed on probation and dismissed from the football team
for attacking his former girlfriend. Phillips had violently assaulted
his girlfriend, beating her and dragging her down several flights of
stairs before neighbors intervened. On October 23, 1996 the University
announced that Phillips would be required to complete mandatory
counseling sessions, community service and attend all of his classes.
However, the school allowed Phillips to return to football practice
the next day. He was charged with a misdemeanor assault and
trespassing and was sentenced December 1, 1996.
Michael Pittman
Michael Pittman, a player for the Arizona Cardinals professional
football team, was arrested and spent a night in jail following an
argument with his estranged wife in July 2001. Pittman agreed to enter
an adult diversion program, and will undergo counseling and a
nine-month anger management program. Police report there was no
physical contact during the argument, but Pittman was arrested because
he was the aggressor, according to USA Today. In 1997, Pittman was
arrested for assaulting a former girlfriend and was sentenced to a
batterers' treatment program and two years of probation.
Roman Polanski
In an opinion article in the Los Angeles Times, Samantha Geimer, the
woman who was raped by director Roman Polanski when she was
13-years-old, writes that Polanski's crime should not affect his
chances of receiving an Oscar for his work but says unequivocally
that Polanski raped her. In 1977, Polanski drugged and raped Geimer
after taking pictures of her for a fashion magazine. She writes, "He
gave me champagne and a piece of a Quaalude. And then he took
advantage of me. It was not consensual sex by any means." Polanski
pleaded guilty to the assault and agreed to a plea bargain, but fled
the country once the judge refused to honor the plea. He has lived
abroad ever since; if Polanski returns to the United States he will
face charges. Polanski's most recent film, The Pianist, has been
nominated for seven Academy Awards. In February 2003, he won the BAFTA
(the British film industry's equivalent to an Oscar) for best
director.
Billy Powell
Billy Powell, keyboardist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, was charged with a
misdemeanor for assaulting his wife in September 1996. Powell
allegedly pushed his wife to the ground and held her by her neck; the
couple's 13-year-old daughter witnessed the attack. Lynyrd Skynyrd is
known for its songs "Freebird" and "Sweet Home Alabama."
Prodigy
In December 1997, the National Organization for Women's Los Angeles
chapter spoke out against the release of the song "Smack My Bitch Up"
by the British band Prodigy, asking radio stations not to play the
song. The song's lyrics, repeated over and over, are: "Change my pitch
up/Smack by bitch up." It was being played uncensored on several radio
stations across the country. For several weeks, MTV also aired the
song's video between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. The video depicts drug use,
nudity and violence. Following the protests, MTV took the video off
the air.
Danny Quinn
In September 1997, Danny Quinn has accused his father, actor Anthony
Quinn, of abusing Danny's mother. During his parents' divorce
proceedings, Danny provided graphic testimony about how his father
beat his mother whenever she questioned him about extramarital
affairs. Danny also admitted to abusing his former wife, actress
Lauren Holly.
Lou Rawls
In January 2003, Grammy-winning singer Lou Rawls was arrested in
Albuquerque and charged with misdemeanor battery for assaulting his
companion, Nina Inman. According to a police report, Rawls grabbed
Inman's hair and threw her to the floor during an argument, reports
the Albuquerque Journal. Rawls was released on bond.
Patrizai Reggiani
In 1998, Patrizai Reggiani, dubbed the "Black Widow" by the Italian
press, was sentenced to 29 years in prison for ordering the murder of
her ex-husband Maurizio Gucci, heir to the Gucci fortune. Four other
accomplices, including her personal psychic who helped arrange the
murder, received similar sentences.
David Reid
Despite allegations of domestic violence, the USA Boxing Federation
panel decided David Reid will still represent the United States as an
Olympic boxer. On June 19, 1996 Reid was arrested for beating his
girlfriend while staying at an Orlando motel.
Eric Roberts
Actor Eric Roberts was arrested on February 8, 1995 for shoving his
wife Eliza into a wall. The brother of movie star Julia Roberts, Eric
had been to court before for fighting with former girlfriend Kelly
Cunningham.
Alvin Robertson
Former NBA basketball star and Olympic gold medalist Alvin Robertson
pleaded no contest in Texas in August 1997 to four misdemeanor charges
of abusing his former girlfriend. Robertson was sentenced to a year in
jail.
Glenn Robinson
Milwaukee Bucks basketball player Glenn Robinson was arrested in July
2002 after assaulting his ex-fiancée, Jonta French. The couple has a
child, who Robinson wanted to visit. Once French let Robinson into the
house, he reportedly began to hit her. During Robinson's bond hearing,
prosecutors said he told French that he was "ready to die and we're
both going to die," reports USA Today. Robinson was charged with
domestic battery, assault and illegal possession of a firearm. He was
freed on bond.
Rick Rockwell
In March 2000, Twenty-three million people watched Darva Conger marry
Rick Rockwell on the FOX television show, Who Wants to Marry A
Multi-Millionaire. After the show and the couple's honeymoon, the web
site TheSmokingGun.com reported that Rockwell's former girlfriend had
won a restraining order against him. In 1991, Debbie Goyne filed a
petition for a restraining order, charging Rockwell with threatening
her life after she broke off their engagement. Rockwell was ordered to
stay at least 100 yards away from Goyne for at least six months. On
NBC's Today Show, Rockwell claimed that he had "never" hit any of his
girlfriends. When asked if he had ever threatened anyone, he replied,
"No, I don't think so." The Today Show reports that Rockwell's former
roommate also once had a restraining order against him. In 1982, Mark
High (now known as Mark Brandon) won a restraining order against
Rockwell, claiming that Rockwell had threatened and physically
assaulted him. NBC reports that court papers accuse Rockwell of
"assaulting and battering Brandon, pushing him into a wall and
throwing him down stairs."
Derrick Rodgers
Miami Dolphins Professional Football Player Derrick Rodgers pleaded no
contest to charges he attacked his wife, Kareff Rodgers, and another
man in January 2003. He was sentenced to three years probation.
Rodgers was arrested last year for assaulting Kareff Rodgers and
William Peguero in a Miami restaurant. Rodgers accused the couple of
having an affair and hit Peguero with a metal chair. He then kicked
and punched Kareff Rodgers. In addition to probation, Rodgers was
sentenced to take 26 weekly classes in a domestic batterers
intervention program. He also must complete 100 hours of community
services and make a $500 donation to a domestic violence shelter. He
may face a one-game NFL suspension, reports the Associated Press.
Dennis Rodman
Former NBA star Dennis Rodman was arrested in January 2003 after an
unidentified woman accused him of assaulting her. The woman called
police from a payphone near Rodman's house in Newport Beach. She
suffered from a "small swelling to her upper lip and claimed to have a
bump on her head," according to Associated Press. Rodman was released
on $25,000 bail.
Patrick Roy
In December 2000, police arrested professional hockey player Patrick
Roy on "investigation of domestic violence and criminal misconduct
charges" in October. Roy, who plays goalie for the Colorado Avalanche,
was arrested after police responded to a 911 hang-up call at his home.
According to a police news release, Roy and his wife Michele "had been
involved in a verbal argument," and Roy was taken to jail because
"physical damage" had been done to the residence, reports USA Today.
Roy was released on $750 bail. The Avalanche released a statement
saying that the team will wait until the police investigation is over
before commenting on the matter.
Charlie Sheen
In June 1997, actor Charlie Sheen pleaded no contest to physically
abusing his former girlfriend the December before and received a
one-year suspended sentence and two years probation. Sheen must also
pay $2,800 in fines and restitution, attend counseling sessions, and
perform 300 hours of community service. He is forbidden from
contacting his ex-girlfriend.
O.J. Simpson
In spring 2002, O.J. Simpson filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Federal
District Court seeking to overturn the $33.5 million civil verdict
against him for the 1994 murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson
and Ronald Goldman. In the suit, Simpson claims his 1997 civil trial
was "marked by several judicial irregularities," reports the New York
Times. To date, the families of Brown and Goldman have only received a
"few hundred thousand dollars" from Simpson who claims he cannot
afford to pay the verdict, according to the Times.
John Singleton
In July 1999, Movie director John Singleton pleaded "no contest" to
charges of battering his girlfriend. Singleton has been ordered to
make a 15- to 30-minute public education film on domestic violence,
and undergo a year of domestic violence counseling. Singleton is best
known for his movies "Boyz `N the Hood," "Poetic Justice" and "Higher
Learning."
Thomas Sizemore
In West Hollywood in 1997, actor Thomas Sizemore was arrested for
assaulting his wife, actress Maeve Quinlan, in their home. Sizemore
stared in the hit movie The Relic, as well as Eraser and Natural Born
Killers. Quinlan, who appeared on the soap opera The Bold and the
Beautiful, suffered neck injuries in the assault.
Tom Sizemore
Actor Tom Sizemore was arrested in December 2002 in Los Angeles for
allegedly hitting and threatening a woman who claims to be the actor's
fiancée. The woman, who has not been identified, told police that she
was Sizemore's fiancée, but the actor's representatives say she is
neither his fiancée nor is girlfriend, reports E! Entertainment
Television. Sizemore, who currently stars on the CBS television show,
"Robbery Homicide Division," was charged with a misdemeanor domestic
battery charge and released on bail.
Christian Slater
In January 1998, actor Christian Slater, who pleaded no-contest to two
counts of battery and one count of being under the influence of
cocaine, began serving his 90-day jail sentence just one day after he
attended the Hollywood premiere of his current movie, "Hard Rain."
Slater is serving his time in a small suburban jail where he can work
out in a gym and watch television during the day.
Leon Smith
In January 2000, Judge Rita Mary Novak ordered Dallas Mavericks
basketball player Leon Smith to stay away from his former girlfriend
and to limit his visits to Chicago to 24 hours per visit, reports The
New York Times. Judge Novak also ruled that Smith must be accompanied
by a representative from the National Basketball Association Players
Association whenever he is in Chicago. Smith was jailed for
threatening his former girlfriend with a gun, and last month he was
charged with two counts of criminal damage for smashing her mother's
car.
Troy Smith
In 1995, the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association
reportedly considered signing Troy Smith, who was convicted of killing
his girlfriend, Kelly Dwyer. Smith pleaded guilty to involuntary
manslaughter for pushing Dwyer during an argument. Dwyer suffered head
injuries and died shortly thereafter. Smith served only one year of
his five-to-25-year sentence and is currently on probation.
Siran Stacy
In December 1994, former Philadelphia Eagles running back Siran Stacy
was arrested for assaulting his girlfriend, Sharon Chancellor, less
than two weeks after he had been acquitted of assaulting her on
another occasion. Chancellor had filed numerous complaints against
Stacy in the past, but in most cases declined to press charges.
Joey Starr
In June 1999, French rap singer Joey Starr, a.k.a. Didier Morville,
was sentenced to six months in prison for assaulting his former
girlfriend. Starr is a member of the controversial group NTM, and had
been given a two month sentence earlier that year for assaulting a
flight attendant.
Rod Strickland
In February 1997, New York Judge La Tia Martin warned then-Washington
Bullets basketball player Rod Strickland that he only had one month to
complete 15 domestic violence counseling sessions. As part of a plea
bargain in 1996, Strickland was sentenced to 30 counseling sessions
for hitting a former girlfriend.
Dana Stubblefield
In October 2000, Washington Redskins football player Dana Stubblefield
was arrested last month on charges of assaulting his wife, Kim.
Stubblefield denies hitting his wife, who made the phone call to the
police during an argument. "Nobody got hurt Nobody was drinking.
Nobody was doing anything out of the ordinary. It was just one of
those normal arguments you get in with your wife," said Stubblefield
in the Washington Post. Stubblefield has been charged with a
misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail, and
he could face a fine or suspension by the National Football League.
Ike Turner
"Today, he is making a comeback with his fiancee, Jeanette who tours
with him "I don't hit this girl here," he says pointing to his
fiancee. "But I have said to her, 'you do that again, I'm getting in
your ass.' And then she never forgets. But with Tina, you can't talk,
that was the only way. There may have been another way but I was too
busy trying to pay bills, I had 26 people depending on me for a
living." (Quote from September 27th, 1993 issue of Jet Magazine)
Al Unser
Professional race car driver and two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al
Unser has announced that he will seek treatment for alcohol abuse and
take a temporary break from racing. The announcement comes after
prosecutors decided not to press domestic abuse charges against Unser
in August 2002. He had been arrested for allegedly punching his
girlfriend, Jena L. Soto, and then forcing her out of their car and
leaving her on the side of the highway. Soto refused to press charges
against Unser and reportedly downplayed the events in interviews with
police and prosecutors.
Billy Dee Williams
On January 30, 1996, actor Billy Dee Williams allegedly beat his
live-in girlfriend and tried to prevent her from calling the police.
On March 29, as part of a plea bargain agreement to dismiss the
charges, Williams was ordered to seek domestic violence counseling for
a year.
Mykelti Williamson
Actor Mykelti Williamson, who starred as the shrimp-farmer Bubba in
the movie Forest Gump, was arrested on January 5, 1998 for allegedly
stalking his ex-wife and stabbing her friend. Williamson also appeared
in Waiting to Exhale and Con Air.
Sergei Zubov
In June 1998, Dallas Stars hockey player Sergei Zubov was arrested for
allegedly assaulting his wife, Irina, and threatening her with a
knife. The incident occurred just days after Zubov's team was
eliminated from the National Hockey League Western Conference final.
Zubov was the second leading scorer for the Dallas Stars during the
playoffs.
Alberto Acciarito
In March 1998, Italian film director Alberto Acciarito was convicted
of harassing his ex-wife, Ingrid Rossellini. Acciarito was found
guilty of making several threatening calls last fall to the daughter
of Italian director Roberto Rossellini and award winning actress
Ingrid Bergman.
Steven Adler
Drummer Steven Adler of the rock group Guns N' Roses pleaded no
contest to attacking two women he had dated. Adler was also in
violation of his probation from a 1997 domestic violence conviction.
He was sentenced to 150 days in jail, a year of counseling, and was
placed on three years summary probation.
Courtney Alexander
In July 1997, twenty-year-old University of Virginia basketball star
Courtney Alexander was arrested and charged with hitting, choking and
kicking his girlfriend, Joiel Coleman. Police who answered Coleman's
911 call found her with a bruised face and cut lip. Alexander claimed
the incident was a "misunderstanding." The county magistrate released
Alexander on $2,000 bond and issued Coleman an emergency protection
order. The couple has one child.
Rick Allen
Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen pleaded guilty to spousal battery for
assaulting his wife in 1995. Allen was sentenced to probation,
domestic violence counseling and mandatory attendance at Alcoholics
Anonymous meetings. He also must pay for a public service announcement
in which he admits he is a batterer and urges other batterers to seek
counseling.
Gianluigi Assento
In January 1999, Gianluigi Assenato, an Italian fashion designer who
has designed dresses for actresses attending the Academy Awards,
pleaded guilty to stalking his former girlfriend, actress Andrea
Thompson, who plays Detective Jill Kirkendall on NYPD Blue. A Los
Angeles judge sentenced Assenato to two years in prison and also
mandated that he be deported upon completion of his jail term.
Assenato was accused of slashing Thompson's car tires and threatening
both Thompson and her child.
Pedro Astacio
In March 2000, Colorado Rockies' pitcher Pedro Astacio faced
deportation by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS)
because he pleaded guilty to an assault charge, reports Associated
Press. Astacio, a native of the Dominican Republic, was accused of
punching his estranged wife. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge
of third-degree assault involving domestic violence. Under a federal
law that many battered women's advocates oppose, the INS can deport
immigrants who have been convicted of domestic violence charges.
Astacio's lawyers are working to have his guilty plea withdrawn.
"Stone Cold" Steve Austin
WWE Professional wrestler "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, whose real name
is Steve Williams, turned himself in to police on charges of
assaulting his wife, fellow WWE performer Debra Williams. In June
2002, Debra Williams called police to the couple's house in San
Antonio, and police saw a "large noticeable welt" beneath her right
eye, reports Entertainment Weekly. Austin was not at the house when
police arrived and he was not arrested. In August 2002, Austin turned
himself in, posted $5,000 bond, and was released pending future legal
action.
Robert Blake
Actor Robert Blake was charged with murdering his wife, Bonny Lee
Bakely, and attempting to hire hit men to murder Bakely, among other
counts. In May, 2002, prosecutors announced that they will ask for a
sentence of life in prison without parole instead of the death
penalty. Bakely's four children have filed a wrongful-death suit
against Blake in Los Angeles Superior Court.
Riddick Bowe
In February 2001, former heavyweight boxing champion Riddick Bowe was
arrested and charged with third-degree assault for a fight with his
wife, Terri Bowe. Police arrived at the Bowe house on Long Island and
found Terri Bowe "suffering from cuts and bruises," according to the
Associated Press. Riddick Bowe pleaded innocent to charges of
assaulting his wife, and was released from jail on $2,500 bail. The AP
reports that the couple is "splitting up after a very brief
marriage.'"
Teako Brown and Johnie Church
Two Florida Gators (college football players) each received a one-game
suspension in August 1995 for "conduct detrimental to the university."
Senior defensive end Johnie Church was charged with battery for
abusing his wife, and freshman safety Teako Brown was charged with
aggravated battery for hitting his girlfriend.
Jim Brown
Jim Brown, a member of the Professional Football Hall of Fame and a
former running back for the Cleveland Browns, was sentenced to three
years probation in October 1999, and was ordered to undergo domestic
violence counseling for smashing his wife's car. Brown also was fined
$100, and ordered to pay $1,500 to a battered women's shelter and $200
to a domestic violence fund.
Jim Brown
Former National Football League star Jim Brown was released from
prison in July 2002 after serving time for vandalizing his wife's car.
Brown received a six-month sentence after he refused to undergo
court-ordered domestic violence counseling and community service.
Brown was convicted in 1999 of vandalism for defacing Monique Brown's
car. He was acquitted of the charge of making a terrorist threat
against Monique Brown after threatening to kill her during an
argument. Brown served four-months of his six-month sentence.
Sean Burke
In February 1998, former Hurricanes hockey player Sean Burke pleaded
guilty to beating his wife on November 2 and was ordered to complete a
domestic violence program within the next six months after and pay a
$200 fine. Burke was on probation for the next 18 months. Burke was
traded to the Vancouver Canucks shortly after.
Gary Busey
Actor Gary Busey was charged with misdemeanor spousal battery in March
1999 after his wife, Tiani, called the police to their Malibu home.
Busey starred in The Buddy Holly Story, Lethal Weapon and The Firm.
Joe Carollo, Mayor of Miami
In February 2001, Miami Mayor Joe Carollo was arrested and charged
with battery for allegedly hitting his wife, Maria Ledon Carollo, with
a teapot. Police arrived at the Carollo home and reported that Ledon
Carollo suffered a "golf ball-sized lump" and a bruise on the side of
her head, and Carollo suffered two scratches on his neck. Ledon
Carollo, who filed for divorce three months before the incident,
declined to file charges, but police filed them anyway. In a
statement, Ledon Carollo said she was "completely opposed to any
further involvement in the legal system in this very personal
situation." Carollo has been released from jail on $1,500 bond.
Battery is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of one year
in jail, but lawyers said it "was more likely" that Carollo's
punishment would be to attend anger-management classes, reports the
New York Times.
Rae Carruth
In January 2001, Rae Carruth was found not guilty of the murder of his
girlfriend Cherica Adams, but guilty of conspiracy to commit murder.
The jury acquitted Carruth of first-degree murder, but found him
guilty of three other felony charges: conspiracy to commit murder,
shooting into an occupied vehicle, and using an instrument with intent
to kill an unborn child. Carruth could face up to 25 years in prison.
Carruth was originally charged with hiring three men to shoot Adams in
a drive-by shooting. Adams, who was pregnant at the time of the
attack, slipped into a coma and then died after giving birth to a son,
who is in the custody of her parents. The jury's finding of "not
guilty" of first-degree murder spares Carruth the death penalty.
Duane Causwell
In December 1994, then-Sacramento Kings player Duane Causwell was
released on bail after being arrested for spousal abuse. From a
neighbor's home, Leslie Causwell told sheriff's deputies that her
basketball star husband had beaten her and prevented her from calling
for help. As sheriff's deputies waited, Leslie went home to get the
couple's baby. When Duane restrained her as she tried to leave home
with the infant, police arrested him.
Raphel Cherry
In February 2001, former professional football player Raphel Cherry
was convicted a second time in the 1998 strangulation of his estranged
wife, Jerri Harris Cherry. Judge Chris Piazza sentenced Cherry to 30
years in prison last month. Harris Cherry was found dead in her home
in December of 1998, and prosecutors claimed that Raphel Cherry killed
his wife because she was pursuing a divorce. He had previously been
convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, but
a judge overturned that conviction after jurors admitted they had
violated the judge's orders by talking about the case before
deliberations.
Bobby Chouinard
In February 2000, Bobby Chouinard, a professional baseball player for
the Colorado Rockies, was sentenced to one year in jail and four years
of probation for terrorizing his wife, Erica Chouinard. Bobby was
indicted in January for physically abusing his wife, holding a loaded
gun to her head, and threatening to kill her at their home in Phoenix.
Before the sentencing, Erica said her husband did not hold a gun to
her head and that she lied to the police. Bobby, who will continue to
play baseball for the Rockies, will be jailed in Colorado for
three-month periods when the sport is not in season. The court also
ordered him to attend weekly counseling sessions, participate in an
offender program, donate $25,000 to a local domestic violence charity,
and become a spokesperson against domestic violence.
Eric Clapton
On April 16, 1999, members of the National Task Force on Violence
Against Women protested outside Eric Clapton's live performance in
Washington, D.C. The demonstration was held to protest the lyrics of a
new song, Sick & Tired: "I'm gonna get me a shotgun, baby, and stash
it behind the bedroom door. I may have to blow your brains out, baby.
Then you won't bother me no more." "That Eric Clapton could be so
oblivious to [domestic violence and violent language toward women] is
disheartening," Boston Herald columnist Margery Eagan wrote. "That few
reviewers have even mentioned the violence is worse." Read an op-ed by
FVPF Executive Director Esta Soler on the Clapton song and its impact.
Stan Collymore
In July 1998, British soccer star Stan Collymore received a strong
message that there is no excuse for domestic violence. Collymore was
harshly criticized by the media for allegedly hitting his girlfriend,
TV personality Ulrika Jonsson, the day before the World Cup games. He
also lost his $4 million contract with Diadora sportswear.
Wilfredo Cordero
Baseball star Wilfredo Cordero pleaded guilty to assaulting his wife
in November 1997. His wife refused to testify against him, though he
threatened to kill her while police were arresting him on June 11,
1997 for choking and beating her.
Def Leppard
Two band players from the group Def Leppard were arrested for spousal
assault. On May 5, 1996, police arrested lead singer Joe Elliott and
his girlfriend, Bobbie Tolsma, on assault charges. Although Tolsma
called the hotel's front desk to report Elliott was beating her,
police arrested both of them because they sustained "mutual injuries."
On May 9, 1996, prosecutors refiled a spousal abuse charge against
drummer Rick Allen for attacking his wife last year in an airport.
Allen was required to enter substance abuse counseling in lieu of
prosecution, but failed to appear for sessions.
Dale Ellis
Former Seattle SuperSonics basketball player Dale Ellis pleaded guilty
to a charge of domestic violence in February 2002. Ellis was arrested
in January after hitting his wife, Monique, during an argument.
Monique Ellis suffered minor injuries to her face and fingers as a
result of the incident, reports Ellis was charged with domestic
violence assault, a gross misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty
of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Thirteen years ago, Ellis was
convicted of assaulting his wife and resisting arrest.
Dale Ellis
Former Seattle SuperSonics basketball player Dale Ellis pleaded guilty
to a charge of domestic violence in March 2002. Ellis was arrested in
January after hitting his wife, Monique, during an argument. Monique
Ellis suffered minor injuries to her face and fingers as a result of
the incident, reports USA Today. Ellis was charged with domestic
violence assault, a gross misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty
of one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Thirteen years ago, Ellis was
convicted of assaulting his wife and resisting arrest.
Eminem
Eminem, 26, is a critically acclaimed and extremely popular rap
musician who has courted controversy throughout his highly successful
career. Marshall Mathers LP was the second-best-selling album of 2000,
behind N Sync's No Strings Attached. Marshall Mathers LP sold 7.9
million copies in the United States alone. Wife abuse, murder, rape,
and other forms of violence against women and gay people are
consistent themes throughout the music of Eminem, who is easily the
most popular white rapper ever. On both his albums, he performs songs
about murdering his wife, Kim. Last year, Eminem filed for divorce
from his wife, who tried to commit suicide. They then reportedly
reconciled. He has written lyrics in which he fantasizes about raping
his mother, who is suing him for these and other inflammatory lyrics
about her. Eminem also was arrested for attacking a bartender with a
gun; he said he believed the bartender had flirted with his wife.
Scott Erickson
Baltimore Orioles baseball player Scott Erickson was charged with
second-degree assault in 2002 after a fight with his live-in
girlfriend, Lisa Ortiz. After Ortiz accused Erickson of cheating on
her, he grabbed her and threw her out of their apartment. Police say
that Ortiz attempted to get back into the apartment and bit Erickson
while trying to do so. He then threw her into an elevator. Ortiz said
in a statement, "This is a private matter between Scott and
myself Scott has never been physically abusive toward me, and in no
way do I feel threatened." Charges against Erickson were eventually
dropped.
Adam Farrar
In April 2000, Adam Farrar, the step-brother of Titanic actor Leonardo
DiCaprio, was arrested and faced charges of attempted murder and
making terrorist threats against his girlfriend. Police officers
responded to a report of domestic violence at Farrar's girlfriend's
house. Her name has not been released.
Mark Gastineau
In September 2000, Former New York Jets football player Mark Gastineau
was sentenced to 18 months in jail for failing to complete an
anger-management course after hitting his estranged wife, Patricia
Schorr. In 1998, Gastineau plead guilty to a misdemeanor assault
charge and was ordered to spend a year in a treatment center.
Prosecutors claim he did not fulfill his sentence, and left the
program after about four months.
Ahman Green
In May 2002, Shalynn Green received an order of protection against her
husband, Ahman Green, a professional football player with the Green
Bay Packers. Shalynn Green accused Ahman Green of threatening her and
beating her twice while she was pregnant, reports USA Today. The order
requires Ahman Green to stay away from his wife's home and their
children's day care center; the judge also granted temporary custody
to Shalynn Green. In March, police cited both Shalynn and Ahman Green
on suspicion of disturbing the peace after an argument that left Ahman
Green with a cut lip, according to USA Today.
Tanya Harding
In March 2000, Former Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding pleaded not
guilty to charges that she hit her boyfriend, Darren Silver, in the
face with a hubcap and her fists. If convicted of a misdemeanor
assault charge, Harding could face up to a year in prison and a $5,000
fine. Harding told officers that she hit Silver in an effort to
protect herself, but police say witnesses do not support her
statement. A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for March 8.
Richard Hatch
Survivor I winner Richard Hatch was found guilty in September 2001, of
domestic assault. Hatch was sentenced to one year of probation for an
August incident in which he allegedly shoved his ex-boyfriend, Glenn
Boyanowski, down a flight of stairs. Hatch intends to appeal the
verdict.
John Heard
In April 1997, "Home Alone" and "The Sopranos" actor John Heard was
convicted in Baltimore of telephone misuse and trespassing but
acquitted of harassing his former girlfriend and assaulting her
current boyfriend. Heard was accused of calling his ex-girlfriend's
home several times a day, peeping into windows in the house, and
hitting her boyfriend. In 1994, a judge denied Heard custody of the
couple's child because the judge felt Heard lacked the "temperament in
parenting skills" and had physically abused his partner in the past.
Allen Iverson
A judge dismissed 12 of the 14 charges against Philadelphia 76ers
basketball player Allen Iverson during the first day of his trial in
July 2002. Iverson had plead not guilty to all of the 14 charges that
stemmed from an incident in which he broke into his cousin's apartment
with a gun and made threatening statements while searching for his
wife, Tawanna Iverson, following a domestic dispute. Reports claim
that, after fighting with his wife, Iverson threw her out of their
house. Some reports claim she was naked or in her underwear at the
time, and that Allen Iverson took the action because he thought she
was having an affair. The judge dropped most of the charges after
contradictory testimony from three witnesses in the case.
Mike Jacobs
Ohio State University assistant football coach Mike Jacobs was
arrested for allegedly beating his ex-wife on January 16, 1999.
Jacobs' former wife claims that he hit her several times in the face,
pulled her by her hair and shoved her against his car. Ohio State
University had temporarily placed Jacobs on paid administrative leave
pending resolution of the charges.
David Jaye, State Senator
In May 2001, state Senators are moving to expel Senator David Jaye
(R-Washington Township), who was arrested on charges of domestic
battery. Jaye was arrested and spent a night in jail earlier this
month in Florida after a dispute with his fiancée. A bipartisan Senate
panel will investigate Jaye's offenses and recommend whether he should
be expelled from the Senate. In the past, a felony conviction has been
required for lawmakers to consider expelling a member, but Senate
Majority Leader Dan DeGrow (R-Post Huron) said Jaye may no longer be
fit to serve because of his misdemeanor offenses and "pattern of
behavior over time," reports the Detroit News. Last year, Jaye served
35 days in prison for drunk driving. "Thirty years ago, it was
acceptable to drive drunk and slap around women," DeGrow told the
Chicago Tribune. "What was acceptable in the good old boy network 30
years ago isn't acceptable now."
Jason Kidd
In March 2001, professional basketball player Jason Kidd of the
Phoenix Suns will not be prosecuted on domestic violence assault
charges. He was arrested in January during a domestic dispute with his
wife, Joumana. Kidd has agreed to undergo domestic violence counseling
for at least six months, pay a $200 fine and not commit a crime for
one year. The National Basketball Association also has decided not to
discipline Kidd.
Gordon Kimbrough
On February 1, 1995, former bodybuilding champion Gordon Kimbrough was
convicted of first degree murder for fatally stabbing his fiancee,
Kristy Ramsey. Gordon murdered Ramsey shortly after she told him she
wanted to break off their relationship. Friends said it appeared to be
a perfect marriage. Gordon was scheduled for sentencing on March 15,
1995.
Tawny Kitaen
Professional baseball player Chuck Finley filed for divorce from
actress Tawny Kitaen, after Kitaen was charged in 2002 with spousal
abuse and battery. Finley also obtained a temporary restraining order
against Kitaen that prevents her from seeing him or the couple's two
daughters. Kitaen was arrested after a third party called police to
the couple's house, and police noticed abrasions and scrapes on
Finley, who plays for the Cleveland Indians.
Evel Knievel
On October 9, 1994, former motorcycle daredevil Evel Knievel was
arrested for allegedly battering a woman. Due to lack of evidence, the
domestic violence charges were dropped but he was charged with
possession of a handgun that was found in his car during the arrest.
Knievel pleaded innocent to violating the gun law.
Bill Kreutzmann
During a plea bargain in June 1997, Grateful Dead drummer Bill
Kreutzmann pleaded no contest to one count of assaulting his former
girlfriend. He was originally charged with several counts of assault.
Kreutzmann was jailed for two days, required to perform community
service, pay his ex-girlfriend's medical bills, and abstain from drugs
and alcohol.
Sergei Krivokrasov
Sergei Krivokrasov, a hockey player on the Nashville Predators, was
ordered to undergo counseling as a part of an agreement for dismissal
of a domestic violence charge brought by his wife, Natalia
Krivokrasov. Natalia Krivokrasov reported that her husband kicked and
slapped her, pulled out her hair and pushed her down the stairs
following an argument.
Deidra Lane
In July 2000, Deidra Lane shot and killed her husband, professional
football player Fred Lane, during what Charlotte-Mecklenburg police
describe as a "domestic dispute." To date, charges have not been filed
against Deidra Lane. In March, Lane filed a complaint against her
husband, who played football for the Carolina Panthers and the
Indianapolis Colts, alleging that he grabbed a necklace from her neck
during an argument, causing her to fall. She did not press charges at
the time. Fred Lane's father reports that, before the shooting, the
couple had been having "difficulties." The couple has a newborn baby
and a five-year-old son.
Tracy Lawrence
In January 1998, country music singer Tracy Lawrence was convicted of
abusing his estranged wife, who accused Lawrence of hitting her and
making death threats after his September 12, 1997 concert. Lawrence,
known for his hits "Time Marches On," "Sticks and Stones," and "Any
Fool Can See," acknowledged he slapped her but denied punching her.
They are in the process of divorcing.
Art Long
On October 14, 1995 University of Cincinnati basketball player Art
Long was arrested for allegedly choking Yvette Lanton, his girlfriend.
Lanton had a restraining order against Long, prohibiting him from
approaching her. Long has a previous conviction for selling marijuana
to an undercover cop and has a charge pending for assaulting a police
horse during a fight.
Trini Lopez
Entertainer Trini Lopez, known for his 1960s hit song "If I Had a
Hammer" and co-starring in "The Dirty Dozen," was charged with a
misdemeanor for allegedly beating Rose Mihata, his former girlfriend
in November 1995. Mihata's lawyer, Gloria Allred, was angered that
Lopez received only one misdemeanor charge, instead of two felony
charges as the police recommended. The prosecutor responded that
Mihata's injuries were not severe enough and Lopez did not have a
prior criminal record.
Andrew Luster
In February 2003, Andrew Luster was sentenced to 124 years in state
prison and ordered to pay one million dollars in restitution for
drugging and raping three women. Luster, heir to the Max Factor
cosmetic fortune, was convicted in absentia in Ventura County Superior
Court on 86 counts, including sodomy, rape and poisoning. Luster's
whereabouts are unknown. He has been on the run since he disappeared
on January 3, 2003 after being released on a million dollars bail.
Sasha Mitchell
In December 1996, actor Sasha Mitchell of the ABC sitcom "Step By
Step" was sentenced to six months in jail. Mitchell's probation was
revoked because he violated its terms by moving out of state. He has
repeatedly battered his wife.
John Montefusco
In February 2000, John Montefusco, a former professional baseball
player, was sentenced to three years of probation for criminal
trespass and simple assault against his former wife, Doris Montefusco.
In November, a jury acquitted Montefusco of sexually assaulting his
former wife. Montefusco says he plans to appeal his sentence, reports
the New York Times.
Warren Moon
After deliberating for just half an hour, a jury acquitted Minnesota
Vikings quarterback Warren Moon of assaulting his wife, Felicia. The
incident occurred in July 1995 at the couple's home, and their
terrified seven-year-old son called the police. Felicia Moon
originally told police that she had been beaten by her husband; she
had visible injuries. She later insisted to police and to the jury
that she had struck first and her husband was merely trying to
restrain her. Prosecutors had used a controversial new Texas law to
force Felicia to testify against her husband. In interviews after the
verdict, the Moons declined to criticize the law, saying simply that
it was mis-used in their case. Prosecutors disagreed.
Harry Morgan
In July 1997, spousal abuse charges against M*A*S*H star Harry Morgan
were dropped after he completed a six-month domestic violence
counseling program. Morgan was charged with abusing his wife in July
1996 after an argument that left his wife with injuries to her eye,
foot and arm.
James Orr
Producer-director James Orr was sentenced to three years' probation
for choking his ex-girlfriend Farrah Fawcett and slamming her head to
the ground in 1998. Orr had faced a maximum penalty of one year in
prison and a $6,000 fine.
Ruben Patterson
Some basketball fans in Portland are boycotting Trail Blazers' games
because several players on the team have been arrested. Forward Ruben
Patterson, a registered sex offender, was arrested after his wife,
Shannon, reported to police that her husband had assaulted her.
Charges were later dismissed after Shannon Patterson asked prosecutors
to drop the case. The Trail Blazers organization fined Patterson
$100,000 for the incident. Two other players, Rasheed Wallace and
Damon Stoudamire, were arrested on marijuana possession charges. One
fan posted a billboard in downtown Portland that reads, "Boycott
Blazers we need a team that can beat L.A., not women and the justice
system," reports the Washington Post.
Lawrence Phillips
In September 1996, University of Nebraska football star, Lawrence
Phillips, was placed on probation and dismissed from the football team
for attacking his former girlfriend. Phillips had violently assaulted
his girlfriend, beating her and dragging her down several flights of
stairs before neighbors intervened. On October 23, 1996 the University
announced that Phillips would be required to complete mandatory
counseling sessions, community service and attend all of his classes.
However, the school allowed Phillips to return to football practice
the next day. He was charged with a misdemeanor assault and
trespassing and was sentenced December 1, 1996.
Michael Pittman
Michael Pittman, a player for the Arizona Cardinals professional
football team, was arrested and spent a night in jail following an
argument with his estranged wife in July 2001. Pittman agreed to enter
an adult diversion program, and will undergo counseling and a
nine-month anger management program. Police report there was no
physical contact during the argument, but Pittman was arrested because
he was the aggressor, according to USA Today. In 1997, Pittman was
arrested for assaulting a former girlfriend and was sentenced to a
batterers' treatment program and two years of probation.
Roman Polanski
In an opinion article in the Los Angeles Times, Samantha Geimer, the
woman who was raped by director Roman Polanski when she was
13-years-old, writes that Polanski's crime should not affect his
chances of receiving an Oscar for his work but says unequivocally
that Polanski raped her. In 1977, Polanski drugged and raped Geimer
after taking pictures of her for a fashion magazine. She writes, "He
gave me champagne and a piece of a Quaalude. And then he took
advantage of me. It was not consensual sex by any means." Polanski
pleaded guilty to the assault and agreed to a plea bargain, but fled
the country once the judge refused to honor the plea. He has lived
abroad ever since; if Polanski returns to the United States he will
face charges. Polanski's most recent film, The Pianist, has been
nominated for seven Academy Awards. In February 2003, he won the BAFTA
(the British film industry's equivalent to an Oscar) for best
director.
Billy Powell
Billy Powell, keyboardist for Lynyrd Skynyrd, was charged with a
misdemeanor for assaulting his wife in September 1996. Powell
allegedly pushed his wife to the ground and held her by her neck; the
couple's 13-year-old daughter witnessed the attack. Lynyrd Skynyrd is
known for its songs "Freebird" and "Sweet Home Alabama."
Prodigy
In December 1997, the National Organization for Women's Los Angeles
chapter spoke out against the release of the song "Smack My Bitch Up"
by the British band Prodigy, asking radio stations not to play the
song. The song's lyrics, repeated over and over, are: "Change my pitch
up/Smack by bitch up." It was being played uncensored on several radio
stations across the country. For several weeks, MTV also aired the
song's video between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. The video depicts drug use,
nudity and violence. Following the protests, MTV took the video off
the air.
Danny Quinn
In September 1997, Danny Quinn has accused his father, actor Anthony
Quinn, of abusing Danny's mother. During his parents' divorce
proceedings, Danny provided graphic testimony about how his father
beat his mother whenever she questioned him about extramarital
affairs. Danny also admitted to abusing his former wife, actress
Lauren Holly.
Lou Rawls
In January 2003, Grammy-winning singer Lou Rawls was arrested in
Albuquerque and charged with misdemeanor battery for assaulting his
companion, Nina Inman. According to a police report, Rawls grabbed
Inman's hair and threw her to the floor during an argument, reports
the Albuquerque Journal. Rawls was released on bond.
Patrizai Reggiani
In 1998, Patrizai Reggiani, dubbed the "Black Widow" by the Italian
press, was sentenced to 29 years in prison for ordering the murder of
her ex-husband Maurizio Gucci, heir to the Gucci fortune. Four other
accomplices, including her personal psychic who helped arrange the
murder, received similar sentences.
David Reid
Despite allegations of domestic violence, the USA Boxing Federation
panel decided David Reid will still represent the United States as an
Olympic boxer. On June 19, 1996 Reid was arrested for beating his
girlfriend while staying at an Orlando motel.
Eric Roberts
Actor Eric Roberts was arrested on February 8, 1995 for shoving his
wife Eliza into a wall. The brother of movie star Julia Roberts, Eric
had been to court before for fighting with former girlfriend Kelly
Cunningham.
Alvin Robertson
Former NBA basketball star and Olympic gold medalist Alvin Robertson
pleaded no contest in Texas in August 1997 to four misdemeanor charges
of abusing his former girlfriend. Robertson was sentenced to a year in
jail.
Glenn Robinson
Milwaukee Bucks basketball player Glenn Robinson was arrested in July
2002 after assaulting his ex-fiancée, Jonta French. The couple has a
child, who Robinson wanted to visit. Once French let Robinson into the
house, he reportedly began to hit her. During Robinson's bond hearing,
prosecutors said he told French that he was "ready to die and we're
both going to die," reports USA Today. Robinson was charged with
domestic battery, assault and illegal possession of a firearm. He was
freed on bond.
Rick Rockwell
In March 2000, Twenty-three million people watched Darva Conger marry
Rick Rockwell on the FOX television show, Who Wants to Marry A
Multi-Millionaire. After the show and the couple's honeymoon, the web
site TheSmokingGun.com reported that Rockwell's former girlfriend had
won a restraining order against him. In 1991, Debbie Goyne filed a
petition for a restraining order, charging Rockwell with threatening
her life after she broke off their engagement. Rockwell was ordered to
stay at least 100 yards away from Goyne for at least six months. On
NBC's Today Show, Rockwell claimed that he had "never" hit any of his
girlfriends. When asked if he had ever threatened anyone, he replied,
"No, I don't think so." The Today Show reports that Rockwell's former
roommate also once had a restraining order against him. In 1982, Mark
High (now known as Mark Brandon) won a restraining order against
Rockwell, claiming that Rockwell had threatened and physically
assaulted him. NBC reports that court papers accuse Rockwell of
"assaulting and battering Brandon, pushing him into a wall and
throwing him down stairs."
Derrick Rodgers
Miami Dolphins Professional Football Player Derrick Rodgers pleaded no
contest to charges he attacked his wife, Kareff Rodgers, and another
man in January 2003. He was sentenced to three years probation.
Rodgers was arrested last year for assaulting Kareff Rodgers and
William Peguero in a Miami restaurant. Rodgers accused the couple of
having an affair and hit Peguero with a metal chair. He then kicked
and punched Kareff Rodgers. In addition to probation, Rodgers was
sentenced to take 26 weekly classes in a domestic batterers
intervention program. He also must complete 100 hours of community
services and make a $500 donation to a domestic violence shelter. He
may face a one-game NFL suspension, reports the Associated Press.
Dennis Rodman
Former NBA star Dennis Rodman was arrested in January 2003 after an
unidentified woman accused him of assaulting her. The woman called
police from a payphone near Rodman's house in Newport Beach. She
suffered from a "small swelling to her upper lip and claimed to have a
bump on her head," according to Associated Press. Rodman was released
on $25,000 bail.
Patrick Roy
In December 2000, police arrested professional hockey player Patrick
Roy on "investigation of domestic violence and criminal misconduct
charges" in October. Roy, who plays goalie for the Colorado Avalanche,
was arrested after police responded to a 911 hang-up call at his home.
According to a police news release, Roy and his wife Michele "had been
involved in a verbal argument," and Roy was taken to jail because
"physical damage" had been done to the residence, reports USA Today.
Roy was released on $750 bail. The Avalanche released a statement
saying that the team will wait until the police investigation is over
before commenting on the matter.
Charlie Sheen
In June 1997, actor Charlie Sheen pleaded no contest to physically
abusing his former girlfriend the December before and received a
one-year suspended sentence and two years probation. Sheen must also
pay $2,800 in fines and restitution, attend counseling sessions, and
perform 300 hours of community service. He is forbidden from
contacting his ex-girlfriend.
O.J. Simpson
In spring 2002, O.J. Simpson filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Federal
District Court seeking to overturn the $33.5 million civil verdict
against him for the 1994 murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson
and Ronald Goldman. In the suit, Simpson claims his 1997 civil trial
was "marked by several judicial irregularities," reports the New York
Times. To date, the families of Brown and Goldman have only received a
"few hundred thousand dollars" from Simpson who claims he cannot
afford to pay the verdict, according to the Times.
John Singleton
In July 1999, Movie director John Singleton pleaded "no contest" to
charges of battering his girlfriend. Singleton has been ordered to
make a 15- to 30-minute public education film on domestic violence,
and undergo a year of domestic violence counseling. Singleton is best
known for his movies "Boyz `N the Hood," "Poetic Justice" and "Higher
Learning."
Thomas Sizemore
In West Hollywood in 1997, actor Thomas Sizemore was arrested for
assaulting his wife, actress Maeve Quinlan, in their home. Sizemore
stared in the hit movie The Relic, as well as Eraser and Natural Born
Killers. Quinlan, who appeared on the soap opera The Bold and the
Beautiful, suffered neck injuries in the assault.
Tom Sizemore
Actor Tom Sizemore was arrested in December 2002 in Los Angeles for
allegedly hitting and threatening a woman who claims to be the actor's
fiancée. The woman, who has not been identified, told police that she
was Sizemore's fiancée, but the actor's representatives say she is
neither his fiancée nor is girlfriend, reports E! Entertainment
Television. Sizemore, who currently stars on the CBS television show,
"Robbery Homicide Division," was charged with a misdemeanor domestic
battery charge and released on bail.
Christian Slater
In January 1998, actor Christian Slater, who pleaded no-contest to two
counts of battery and one count of being under the influence of
cocaine, began serving his 90-day jail sentence just one day after he
attended the Hollywood premiere of his current movie, "Hard Rain."
Slater is serving his time in a small suburban jail where he can work
out in a gym and watch television during the day.
Leon Smith
In January 2000, Judge Rita Mary Novak ordered Dallas Mavericks
basketball player Leon Smith to stay away from his former girlfriend
and to limit his visits to Chicago to 24 hours per visit, reports The
New York Times. Judge Novak also ruled that Smith must be accompanied
by a representative from the National Basketball Association Players
Association whenever he is in Chicago. Smith was jailed for
threatening his former girlfriend with a gun, and last month he was
charged with two counts of criminal damage for smashing her mother's
car.
Troy Smith
In 1995, the Charlotte Hornets of the National Basketball Association
reportedly considered signing Troy Smith, who was convicted of killing
his girlfriend, Kelly Dwyer. Smith pleaded guilty to involuntary
manslaughter for pushing Dwyer during an argument. Dwyer suffered head
injuries and died shortly thereafter. Smith served only one year of
his five-to-25-year sentence and is currently on probation.
Siran Stacy
In December 1994, former Philadelphia Eagles running back Siran Stacy
was arrested for assaulting his girlfriend, Sharon Chancellor, less
than two weeks after he had been acquitted of assaulting her on
another occasion. Chancellor had filed numerous complaints against
Stacy in the past, but in most cases declined to press charges.
Joey Starr
In June 1999, French rap singer Joey Starr, a.k.a. Didier Morville,
was sentenced to six months in prison for assaulting his former
girlfriend. Starr is a member of the controversial group NTM, and had
been given a two month sentence earlier that year for assaulting a
flight attendant.
Rod Strickland
In February 1997, New York Judge La Tia Martin warned then-Washington
Bullets basketball player Rod Strickland that he only had one month to
complete 15 domestic violence counseling sessions. As part of a plea
bargain in 1996, Strickland was sentenced to 30 counseling sessions
for hitting a former girlfriend.
Dana Stubblefield
In October 2000, Washington Redskins football player Dana Stubblefield
was arrested last month on charges of assaulting his wife, Kim.
Stubblefield denies hitting his wife, who made the phone call to the
police during an argument. "Nobody got hurt Nobody was drinking.
Nobody was doing anything out of the ordinary. It was just one of
those normal arguments you get in with your wife," said Stubblefield
in the Washington Post. Stubblefield has been charged with a
misdemeanor that carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail, and
he could face a fine or suspension by the National Football League.
Ike Turner
"Today, he is making a comeback with his fiancee, Jeanette who tours
with him "I don't hit this girl here," he says pointing to his
fiancee. "But I have said to her, 'you do that again, I'm getting in
your ass.' And then she never forgets. But with Tina, you can't talk,
that was the only way. There may have been another way but I was too
busy trying to pay bills, I had 26 people depending on me for a
living." (Quote from September 27th, 1993 issue of Jet Magazine)
Al Unser
Professional race car driver and two-time Indianapolis 500 winner Al
Unser has announced that he will seek treatment for alcohol abuse and
take a temporary break from racing. The announcement comes after
prosecutors decided not to press domestic abuse charges against Unser
in August 2002. He had been arrested for allegedly punching his
girlfriend, Jena L. Soto, and then forcing her out of their car and
leaving her on the side of the highway. Soto refused to press charges
against Unser and reportedly downplayed the events in interviews with
police and prosecutors.
Billy Dee Williams
On January 30, 1996, actor Billy Dee Williams allegedly beat his
live-in girlfriend and tried to prevent her from calling the police.
On March 29, as part of a plea bargain agreement to dismiss the
charges, Williams was ordered to seek domestic violence counseling for
a year.
Mykelti Williamson
Actor Mykelti Williamson, who starred as the shrimp-farmer Bubba in
the movie Forest Gump, was arrested on January 5, 1998 for allegedly
stalking his ex-wife and stabbing her friend. Williamson also appeared
in Waiting to Exhale and Con Air.
Sergei Zubov
In June 1998, Dallas Stars hockey player Sergei Zubov was arrested for
allegedly assaulting his wife, Irina, and threatening her with a
knife. The incident occurred just days after Zubov's team was
eliminated from the National Hockey League Western Conference final.
Zubov was the second leading scorer for the Dallas Stars during the
playoffs.