Vin Diesel Faces Sexual Battery Allegations from Former Assistant

 

Vin Diesel, renowned for his role in the Fast and Furious franchise, is facing allegations of sexual battery from his former assistant, Astra Jonasson. In a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on Thursday, Jonasson claims that Diesel sexually assaulted her in a hotel suite in Atlanta in 2010.

According to the lawsuit, Diesel forced himself onto Jonasson in the hotel suite, leading her to attempt an escape. Despite her efforts to leave, Diesel allegedly pursued her, groped her breasts, and kissed her chest. The suit further details that Diesel tried to remove her underwear, causing Jonasson to scream and flee towards a nearby bathroom. Eventually, Diesel forced her to touch his erect penis and engaged in masturbation.

Jonasson, who was fired a few hours later by Diesel's sister Samantha Vincent, the president of One Race Productions, alleges that she felt like a "piece of trash" and experienced a severe blow to her self-esteem. The lawsuit accuses Diesel and his company of creating a hostile work environment, negligent supervision, and wrongful termination.

Vin Diesel's attorney, Bryan Freedman, vehemently denies the allegations, stating, "Vin Diesel categorically denies this claim in its entirety." Freedman emphasizes that this is the first time Diesel has heard about the more than 13-year-old claim made by Jonasson, a former employee of only nine days. He claims there is clear evidence refuting the "outlandish allegations."

In response, Jonasson's attorney, Claire-Lise Kutlay, emphasizes that the lawsuit aims to hold Diesel and those who allegedly covered up the sexual assault accountable for their actions. Kutlay underscores the importance of employers protecting and defending individuals who speak up about sexual assault and harassment.

The Associated Press generally refrains from identifying alleged victims of sexual assault unless they come forward publicly, as Jonasson has done. Vin Diesel has been a central figure in the Fast and Furious franchise since its inception in 2001, with the movies consistently achieving significant success at the box office. The latest installment, Fast X, opened earlier this year with $67.5 million in ticket sales