Variety has reported that at least five victims allege sexual abuse at the hands of well-known actor Chris Noth.
Initially, two women reported that Noth had sexually assaulted them as far back as 2004. The first victim, going by Zoe in an attempt to hide her identity, claimed she moved to California in 2004 at the age of 22 years old. She worked at an entertaining job that allowed her regular access to many celebrities. She claimed that Noth would flirt with her and leave messages on her phone. At one point, he invited her to his pool in West Hollywood. During her visit, she alleged that Noth forced her shorts and bikini off before raping her. Her friend who accompanied her to his apartment confirmed her claim and stated she took Zoe to the hospital to be examined after the assault.
The second victim Lily, also going by a false name, was only 25 years old at the time of her abuse in 2015. Noth, 60 at the time of the alleged abuse, hit on the victim while she was a server at a New York nightclub. Despite knowing he was married at the time, she said she was flattered due to his celebrity status. He asked her out on a date. After many drinks, the two ended up at his apartment, where he tried to force himself on her.
The latest victim reported the abuse took place in 2002 while she was a waitress at Da Marino restaurant. They met at the restaurant, where Noth was a regular. She claimed he forced himself on her while visiting her at her apartment. She fought him off only to be called a "tease" as he became angry because she would not give in.
Noth, known for his roles in the current Sex and the City spin-off, And Just Like That and Law and Order, insists he is innocent. However, he has a history of violence. In 1995, his supermodel girlfriend filed a restraining order against him. She claimed he punched her in the chest, causing her to seek medical attention. She also claimed he made several threats to harm her and even threatened to kill her dog.
Attorney contributor Jason Amala represents sex abuse victims and their families in civil lawsuits. Recently Bobby has shared some of his thoughts on filing a sex abuse lawsuit for abuse by an actor.
"Actors are often pursued as trusted professionals with power due to their celebrity status. Sadly, many violate their trust by committing sexual assault on their admirers. Too often, we hear of victims being taken advantage of by those they look up to."
"When an actor is accused of sexually assaulting a victim, it is vital that the victim is aware of their legal rights. The first step would be reporting the assault to law enforcement, instigating a criminal investigation. However, there are some cases where victims may have grounds for a sexual assault civil lawsuit. A third party often could be liable for the abuse if negligence was involved. For instance, if the agency that employs the actor was aware of the abuse but failed to report it or conduct an investigation, they may be held liable in a lawsuit. Other places of business that failed to prevent the abuse could also be held responsible."
"Victims of sexual assault at the hands of an actor should know they are not alone. An experienced sexual abuse attorney can offer caring and confidential guidance that could lead to the victim recovering compensation for the damages caused by the accused."