Poundstone Pleads Innocent
Comedian Paula Poundstone pleaded innocent Tuesday to child molestation charges and was ordered to stay away from minor children unless their guardians or independent observers are present.
Two protective orders issued by the judge apply to the five alleged victims as well as "all other minors." She was specifically ordered not to threaten, harass or sexually molest children.
"We are confident that when all the facts come out, Paula will be exonerated of all the charges against her," said her attorney, Steven M. Cron.
The 41-year-old standup comic was arraigned on charges of committing a lewd act on a girl under age 14 and endangering two other girls and two boys. If convicted of all charges she could face up to 13 years and four months in prison.
The arraignment was originally scheduled for late this month but a judge agreed to reschedule it for Tuesday.
"Paula is eager to get the proceedings going so she can have her day in court," said Cron.
Prosecutors have not released details of the allegations. All documents in the case were sealed.
Poundstone has three adopted children and two foster children. All five are in protective custody. She posted $200,000 bail a short time after being arrested on June 27 in Malibu.
"We have received a phenomenal amount of support from people around this community, around the country, and indeed around the world," said Cron outside the courthouse.
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