"Orange Is The New Black" Star Dascha Polanco Facing Four Assault Charges

Orange Is the New Black star Dascha Polanco seems to be in trouble with Johnny Law. Let’s hope she doesn’t up in an actual prison!

Polanco, who plays “Daya” on the hit Netflix show, appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court on Thursday because she allegedly punched a 17-year-old girl — but the whole story sounds a bit fishy to us. 

According to Page Six, the actress is facing four counts of assault and harassment for allegedly assaulting a teen named Michelle Cardona in July.


The teen claims that the 33-year-old star punched her in the head, pulled her hair, and scratched her with her fingernails while spending time at the actress’ home in NYC. Cardona alleges there was “bruising and redness to her face, scratches to her arms, and substantial pain.” She also claims that she went to the hospital to get treatment as a result of the injuries.

But there’s definitely another side to this shocking story. Polanco’s lawyer, Gerald Lefcourt, says Cardona is extorting his client. 

“It’s a setup to try to get money and it was tape-recorded,” Lefcourt told Page Six. “This young woman was trying to extort her to drop the case. We’re confident the charges will be dismissed.”

According to People, the actress's next court date is in January.

Despite yesterday's courtroom drama, Polanco ended up having a surprise party for her birthday. The actress put her legal battle aside and partied down with her OITNB coworkers at TAO in NYC. We're glad that a little bday bash could turn that frown upside down!

 

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