Hollywood star Vin Diesel's former personal assistant has accused him of sexual battery during the filming of ‘Fast Five’ in 2010.
According to a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on December 21, Asta Jonasson claims that Diesel trapped her against a wall in a hotel suite and masturbated in front of her. He allegedly ignored her clear statements of non-consent as he groped her.
She also claims wrongful termination, alleging that Vin Diesel's company fired her shortly after the alleged sexual battery.
She is also suing the actor's sister and his production company.
‘It was clear to her that she was being fired because she was no longer useful - Vin Diesel had used her to fulfil his sexual desires,’ the suit alleges.
It adds, ‘Ms Jonasson felt helpless, her self-esteem was demolished, and she questioned her own skills and whether a successful career would require her to trade her body for advancement.’
In addition to sexual battery, her lawsuit includes claims of gender discrimination, illegal retaliation, emotional distress, and wrongful termination.
A lawyer for Ms Jonasson said in a statement to BBC News that her client ‘seeks to hold Vin Diesel and those who allowed and covered up his sexual assault accountable for their egregious actions’.
‘We hope her courageous decision to come forward helps create lasting change and empowers other survivors,’ said lawyer.
According to Jonasson's assertions in the legal document, the #MeToo and Time's Up movements empowered her to regain control and seek justice for the suffering she endured due to Vin Diesel and One Race.
Besides the ‘Fast & Furious’ franchise, Vin Diesel is known for films including ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, ‘XXX’ and ‘Riddick’.
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