SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – Actor Emile Hirsch began serving 15 days in a Utah jail after pleading guilty to misdemeanor assault for putting a female studio executive in a chokehold and body-slamming her at a nightclub during the Sundance Film Festival
The “Into the Wild” star told a judge Monday that he was sorry and was learning to take responsibility for his actions, saying he has no excuse for what happened Jan. 25 at Tao Nightclub in Park City. But the victim said Hirsch’s punishment should have been tougher.
Hirsch was intoxicated and taking medications when he dragged the woman across a table, according to police and prosecutors.
“I know it was completely wrong and reckless and irresponsible,” said Hirsch, 30, who wore jeans, a sport coat and tie to court. “I have no excuses for not remembering. I put those chemicals inside me.”
Hirsch’s deal with prosecutors also calls for a $4,750 fine and 50 hours of community service. In exchange, a more serious felony assault charge was dropped and the misdemeanor will be dismissed if he completes his sentence.