Batman Star Christian Bale Accused of Assault
After a wildly popular movie premiere, the drama surrounding "The Dark Knight" continues. While audiences from California to Connecticut lined up for tickets last Friday night, actor Christian Bale was in London preparing for the European movie premiere. Before attending the premiere, Bale allegedly assaulted his mother and sister at London's Dorchester Hotel Sunday night. According to the Sun newspaper, sister Sharon Bale and mother Jenny Bale filed the complaint.
The 34-year-old actor was arrested, questioned by police in London and released on bail yesterday. He claimed the allegations were false, though he cooperated with law enforcement officials. Bale's lawyer said his client visited the police station voluntarily and left without facing official charges. London police have stayed mum on the issue, as is their policy when there is no official charge. However, several media outlets have conjectured that police waited until Tuesday to question Bale to avoid interference with the British premiere.
When not shooting or promoting a movie, Bale resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife and daughter. The Wales-born actor made his debut in 1987 in the Steven Spielberg film "Empire of the Sun." In "The Dark Knight," he reprises his role as the iconic comic book character Batman. The Wales-born actor has no prior criminal record in LA.
In California, assault (PC 240/241) is classified as a misdemeanor and carries with it a maximum punishment of 6 months in county jail. If you've been charged with assault in or near San Diego, then you need an attorney who understands these types of cases. Contact the San Diego Law Center for legal help with assault or other violent crimes.
Bale arrested and released; denies assault, Associated Press, July 22, 2008
Cops Knew Batman Would Return, TMZ.com, July 22, 2008
Morning Mix: Report: Christian Bale Accused of Assaulting Mom, Sister, Washington Post, July 22, 2008
