Actor Faces Charges Following Ski Resort Incident
Haley Joel Osment has issued a public apology after using an antisemitic slur during his arrest earlier this month. The 37-year-old actor was taken into custody on April 8 at a Mammoth Lakes, California, ski lodge for alleged public intoxication and possession of a controlled substance.
According to the Mono County District Attorney’s Office, Osment has been formally charged with possession of cocaine and disorderly conduct. His arraignment is scheduled for June 7.
Osment Calls Behavior “Disgraceful” in Emotional Apology
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Osment expressed deep remorse for his actions:
“I’m absolutely horrified by my behavior. Had I known I used this disgraceful language in the throes of a blackout, I would have spoken up sooner. The past few months of loss and displacement have broken me down to a very low emotional place.”
The Sixth Sense star, who lost his home in the Altadena Eaton Fire earlier this year, continued:
“But that’s no excuse for using this disgusting word. From the bottom of my heart, I apologize to absolutely everyone that this hurts. What came out of my mouth was nonsensical garbage—I’ve let the Jewish community down and it devastates me. I don’t ask for anyone’s forgiveness, but I promise to atone for my terrible mistake.”
Bodycam Footage Reveals Disturbing Details
Police bodycam footage obtained by PEOPLE shows Osment repeatedly claiming he was “being attacked” and refusing to identify himself, instead insisting, “I’m an American.”
Officers later found a folded $20 bill containing a white powdery substance, which a police source told PEOPLE is “presumed to be cocaine.”
Witnesses reported that Osment had been drinking at a nearby bar before becoming “aggravated and argumentative.” After being cut off by staff, he allegedly attempted to board a ski lift, prompting employees to call law enforcement.
History of Legal Troubles
This is not Osment’s first brush with the law:
- 2018: Involved in a public altercation at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.
- 2006: Pleaded no contest to DUI and marijuana possession after a car crash at age 18.
Resources for Substance Abuse Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, contact the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.