Vin Diesel Sued for Sexual Battery and Wrongful Termination
Actor Vin Diesel is facing a lawsuit from his former assistant, Asta Jonasson, who has accused him of sexual battery and wrongful termination. The incident in question allegedly occurred in 2010 while Diesel was filming "Fast Five" in Atlanta.
In the complaint filed in Los Angeles, Jonasson also named Diesel's sister, Samantha Vincent, and One Race Films, the production company founded by Diesel and managed by Vincent.
According to Jonasson's attorney, Claire-Lise Kutlay, the lawsuit aims to hold Vin Diesel accountable for the sexual assaults and to hold his former employer responsible for wrongfully terminating her employment and covering up the incidents.
CBS News has reached out to Diesel's attorneys and representatives for comment.
Vin Diesel Faces Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Assaults
A lawsuit has been filed against actor Vin Diesel, accusing him of ignoring clear statements of non-consent and committing sexual assaults. The plaintiff, identified as Ms. Jonasson, claims that Diesel attempted to remove her underwear after she screamed and tried to escape to a nearby bathroom. The complaint states that Jonasson was scared of angering Diesel and was frozen in shock until he finally released her.
According to Jonasson, just hours after the assault, Diesel's sister terminated her employment. The plaintiff remained silent for years out of fear but was inspired by the #MeToo movement to speak up. She was able to file the lawsuit under California's Sexual Abuse and Cover-Up Accountability Act, which provides a three-year window for survivors to file a claim that would have otherwise expired under the state's statute of limitations.
Jonasson is seeking damages, including a $10,000 civil penalty for each violation, as well as compensation for emotional distress and any lost income due to Diesel's actions.
No one should be forced to endure sexual assault or lose their job for resisting sexual assault. No one is too famous or powerful to evade justice
"We hope Ms. Jonasson's courageous decision to come forward helps create lasting change and empowers other survivors."
