Actor Haley Joel Osment has issued a public apology following the release of police body camera footage capturing his use of an antisemitic slur during an arrest earlier this month. The incident occurred on April 8 at Mammoth Mountain ski resort in Mammoth Lakes, California, where Osment was detained on charges of public intoxication and possession of a controlled substance, later identified as cocaine.
In the footage, Osment is seen exhibiting erratic behavior, including shouting that he was “being attacked” and claiming to be “kidnapped by a f—ing Nazi.” He also directed an antisemitic slur at one of the arresting officers. Osment later stated he was unaware of his language at the time due to being in a blackout and expressed deep remorse for his actions.
“I’m absolutely horrified by my behavior,” Osment said in a statement. “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. But that’s no excuse for using this disgusting word.” He added, “From the bottom of my … —I’ve let the Jewish community down and … .”
Osment’s recent personal challenges include the loss of his Altadena, California home in the Eaton Fire in … . Following the fire, he had been living with his sister, actress Emily Osment, and their parents, who also lost their home in the same fire. In a podcast recorded days before his arrest, Osment mentioned plans to temporarily relocate to give his sister privacy, citing the pressures of sharing a space with multiple family members and pets.
The Mono County District Attorney’s Office has filed misdemeanor charges against Osment for disorderly conduct involving alcohol and possession of cocaine. His arraignment is scheduled for July 7 at the Mammoth Lakes branch of the Mono County Superior Court.
