‘7th Heaven’s’ Stephen Collins tape: LAPD reviews alleged sex abuse confession
Los Angeles police said they are aware of a New York police investigation into “7th Heaven” actor Stephen Collins and are reviewing an audiotape in which he allegedly admits he sexually abused underage girls, officials said Tuesday.
LAPD Cmdr. Andrew Smith said the department had been in contact with the NYPD but had not opened its own formal investigation into Collins, who is best known for his role as the Rev. Eric Camden on the family-oriented drama.
“We’re looking into it,” Smith said.
Capt. Fabian Lizarraga, who heads the LAPD’s juvenile division, said the department had not identified any possible victims in Los Angeles.
“We don’t have any cases, active or otherwise,” Lizarraga said. “They have the cases.”
Celebrity news site TMZ published an audiotape Tuesday that it said was recorded by Collins’ estranged wife during a therapy session with the actor. The man on the tape mentions two victims in New York and one in Los Angeles, according to TMZ.
The NYPD confirmed in a statement that an investigation had been opened, but did not elaborate.
“There is a formal complaint on file and the incident is being investigated by the Manhattan Special Victims Squad,” the statement said.
Collins, 67, has appeared on numerous television shows, films and on Broadway.
Follow @katemather and @LAcrimes on Twitter for more Los Angeles crime news.
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