Share

Prosecutors won't charge Backstreet Boy Nick Carter following rape allegation

Los Angeles — Prosecutors declined to file charges on Tuesday against Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys after a singer reported last year that she had been raped in 2003.

The woman, Melissa Schuman of the group Dream, was 18 at the time, meaning the statute of limitations for prosecution had expired in 2013, Los Angeles County prosecutors said.

They said they did not otherwise evaluate the merits of Schuman's story.

California did away with its statute of limitations for rape in 2016. Schuman said it's unfortunate the state didn't make the move retroactive to accommodate victims like her.

"My family and I were well aware of the likelihood that my case was not prosecutable," she said in an email to The Associated Press.

Carter's lawyer said the singer feels vindicated.

"Nick has denied these allegations ever since he first learned of them last year, and was confident the district attorney would conclude that there was no basis to pursue charges against him," lawyer Michael Holtz said in a statement. "He is happy to put this matter behind him."

HERE'S A VIDEO WITH MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE STORY:

Carter said in November that he was "shocked and saddened" when Schuman said he had invited her to his Santa Monica apartment in 2003 and sexually assaulted her.

Schuman said on Tuesday that it gives her "great solace" to know that her case has been documented by law enforcement.

"Speaking out was the best thing I could have ever done for myself," she said, "and I hope it inspires others to do the same if it feels right for them."

The Associated Press generally doesn't name people who say they were sexually assaulted but Schuman has come forward publicly to speak about her experience and approves of the use of her name.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE