Los Angeles (AFP) - Porn star Ron Jeremy was ordered Thursday to undergo psychiatric exams ahead of a trial on multiple sex charges against 21 women and girls.
Jeremy, who has appeared in more than 1,700 X-rated films since the 1970s, has been the subject of criminal allegations within the adult industry for years.
He was initially charged in January 2020, and prosecutors subsequently added a battery of other sex-related complaints against him, alleging criminality over several decades of his prolific career.
But at a procedural hearing in Los Angeles on Thursday, Judge George G. Lomeli said the 69-year-old would have to be psychiatrically assessed.
The order came after one of Jeremy's attorneys, Stuart Goldfarb, said he had visited his client in a holding cell before the hearing.
"He was unable to determine who I was," Goldfarb said.
The results of the examinations will be reviewed by the court on April 19.
Jeremy, who remains in custody, has previously declared himself "innocent" on Twitter and denied all charges. He faces life in prison if convicted.
Born Ronald Jeremy Hyatt, the performer appeared in adult movies such as "Deep Throat II" and "John Wayne Bobbitt Uncut."
With his trademark moustache, he was one of the industry's most recognizable stars among the wider public.
But he has long been dogged by assault claims and has been barred from industry events in recent years.
After the initial charges were brought against Jeremy in 2020, Goldfarb denied all the allegations and insisted his client was "not a rapist."
"Ron -- over the years, because of who he is -- has essentially been a paramour to over 4,000 women. And to allege that he is a rapist is beyond... I mean, women throw themselves at him," he added.
