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Haley Joel Osment Issues Apology for Antisemitic Slurs Following Public Intoxication Arrest
Actor Haley Joel Osment, known for his role in “The Sixth Sense,” has publicly apologized for using antisemitic language during his recent arrest for public intoxication earlier this month. The incident, which occurred in California, has prompted the former child star to express remorse and regret for his actions.
Statement of Remorse
In an exclusive statement to The Post on Thursday, Osment, 37, conveyed deep regret, stating, “I’m absolutely horrified by my behavior. Had I been aware that I used such reprehensible language during a blackout, I would have addressed this matter sooner.”
The performer, recognized for roles in “The Sixth Sense” and “Secondhand Lions,” further explained, “The recent months, marked by personal loss and displacement, have significantly impacted my emotional well-being and brought me to a very low point.”
Context of Personal Hardship
The arrest followed a period of significant personal challenges for Osment, including the loss of his home in the Altadena wildfire in January. These Los Angeles wildfires also impacted other celebrities, such as Joshua Jackson and Billy Crystal. Sources familiar with the situation told TMZ that the actor had been “going through a difficult time,” having lost “everything” in the Altadena wildfire and subsequently facing complications with his insurance claim. According to reports, after finding a new residence, Osment’s insurance claim was denied.
Unacceptable Language and Accountability
Despite these personal hardships, Osment emphasized that they did not justify his use of offensive language. “However, these circumstances are not an excuse for uttering such a vile word. From the depths of my heart, I sincerely apologize to everyone who has been hurt by this. The words that came from my mouth were senseless and offensive. I have deeply disappointed the Jewish community, and this realization devastates me.”
He concluded his statement with a pledge for atonement: “I do not seek forgiveness from anyone, but I commit to making amends for my grave error.”
Details of the Arrest
On April 8, law enforcement officials arrested Osment for public intoxication and possession of a controlled substance at a ski resort in California’s Mammoth Lakes region. Police responded to a call regarding an allegedly intoxicated individual at Mammoth Mountain resort shortly before 2 p.m., leading to Osment being taken into custody.
Bodycam Footage and Offensive Remarks
Bodycam footage of the arrest, obtained by The Post on Thursday, captured Osment using an antisemitic slur and labeling a police officer a “Nazi.” He was recorded shouting, “I’ve been kidnapped by a f–king Nazi,” and further claimed he was “being attacked” and accused officers of “torturing” him.
In the video, Osment was also heard telling police, “You’re f–kin’ with my life.” He further stated to officers, “You’ll wish you treated me nicer,” before directing another slur at one of them, saying, “I was decent to you and you, and you are a f–king k–e.”
As he was being escorted into jail, the actor reportedly said to law enforcement, “Good luck.”
Legal Repercussions and Past Incidents
Following his release, the Mono County District Attorney in California proceeded with misdemeanor charges against Osment, including possession of cocaine and disorderly conduct due to public intoxication, as reported by TMZ.
Osment, whose sister is actress Emily Osment, known for her role in “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage,” a spinoff of “The Big Bang Theory,” has a history of alcohol-related incidents. In 2006, at the age of 18, he was arrested after overturning his vehicle and striking a mailbox in Los Angeles while under the influence.
Past DUI Arrest
In the 2006 incident, Osment pleaded no contest to one count of driving under the influence of alcohol and one count of marijuana possession. He received a sentence of three years probation, 60 hours of rehabilitation, and a six-month Alcoholics Anonymous program. Osment later described the incident to The Post as a “really, really serious lapse of judgment.”