It looks like this Orange Is the New Black star is facing legal trouble both on and off the screen. According to Page Six, Dascha Polanco has been accused of assault by 17-year-old Michelle Cardona, who claims the actress attacked her. Reportedly, the 33-year-old was arrested on July 29 after she allegedly punched, scratched, and pulled the hair of Cardona. Bustle reached out to Polanco's rep, but did not receive an immediate response.
Per court documents obtained by Page Six, "Ms. Cardona observed the defendant strike Ms. Cardona about the face and head with a closed fist at least three times, pull Ms. Cardona’s hair, and strike Ms. Cardona’s arms with the defendant’s hands and nails."
Reportedly, the alleged attack took place at Polanco's apartment and she allegedly invited Cardona over via text prior to the reported assault. According to Page Six, police reported Cardona suffered from "bruising and redness to her face, scratches to her arms, and substantial pain."
On Thursday, Polanco appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court where she declined to comment, according to Page Six. Her defense lawyer, Gerald Lefcourt, told People, "This is an attempt to extort money by making a false claim." Lefcourt claims there is recorded evidence of Cardona asking Polanco for money in exchange for dismissing the case entirely. Lefcourt also said the evidence was presented in court. "We expect the case to be dismissed," he added.
Polanco will appear again in court come January 2016.
