New Hampshire, September 19, 2023 — Renowned musician Marilyn Manson, whose real name is Brian Warner, has been handed a sentence by a New Hampshire court for an incident in 2019 where he spat on a camerawoman, a gesture the judge deemed "egregious."
As per the judgment, Manson, 54, will be required to perform 20 hours of community service and pay fines amounting to approximately $1,400 (£1,100) for the misdemeanor that occurred during his concert.
Initially pleading not guilty to the assault charges, Manson eventually changed his plea to no contest. This plea indicates that while he did not formally contest the charge, he was not obligated to admit guilt.
According to police records, on August 19, 2019, Manson spat on photographer Susan Fountain as she filmed his performance at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford. The investigating officer, after reviewing footage of the incident, noted Manson's close proximity to the camera before spitting a substantial amount at Fountain. Following this, Manson knelt over her, covered one nostril, and proceeded to expel a significant amount of mucus.
The report further states that the camera captured Manson pointing and laughing as Fountain left the scene, leaving her feeling humiliated and mistreated.
In a statement delivered in court, Ms. Fountain expressed her dismay, stating, "I've never been humiliated or treated like I was by this defendant. For him to spit on me and blow his nose on me was the most disgusting thing a human being has ever done."
As part of his sentence, Manson must also inform the police of any planned concerts in New Hampshire over the next two years, and furnish evidence of completed community service no later than February 4, 2024.
During the court proceedings, Manson, clad in a black suit, interacted with the judge on two occasions. He confirmed his identity as Brian Warner and affirmed his understanding of the sentence.
Speaking to reporters outside the court, Manson indicated his intention to carry out his service alongside "people in recovery."
Manson's musical career spans 11 studio albums since 1994, with three of them achieving top 10 rankings in the UK. His notable hit single, a rendition of "Tainted Love," reached number five in 2001.
Recent years have seen Manson confronted with multiple allegations of sexual assault, and he has also pursued legal action against an alleged victim, claiming that she has detrimentally affected his career.