Serious Charges Against Poundstone

By Stephen M. Silverman

Thursday June 28, 2001 10:50 AM EDT

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Brassy standup comedian Paula Poundstone, 41, who's offered her political zingers in the "Tonight" and "Rosie O'Donnell" shows, was arrested Wednesday and charged with felony lewd acts upon an unidentified child and child endangerment, L.A. Deputy District Attorney Gina Satriano said in a statement. Poundstone, a single mother of two who has also frequently served as a foster mother, was charged with three counts of committing a lewd act on a girl under the age of 14. Another charge was for endangering two other girls and two boys. If convicted of all charges, Poundstone could face a maximum of 13 years behind bars. Bail was set at $200,000. District Attorney spokeswoman Jane Robison told the Associated Press that her office would release no further details on Poundstone's arrest. Poundstone's manager said the comedian was innocent. "She has been an incredible parent, she's made huge sacrifices to see that children who weren't dealt the best cards in life were well taken care of," said Bonnie Burns, "and she's always shown herself to be completely honorable and full of integrity."