Polanski Can Defend Himself in Sex Case

SAN FRANCISCO — The California Supreme Court Wednesday ruled that movie director Roman Polanski may defend himself against a civil suit by the 13-year-old girl he sexually assaulted in 1977, even though Polanski fled to France before sentencing.

The victim, now 26 and living in Hawaii, filed a civil suit against Polanski stemming from the unlawful sex in 1977. She argued that Polanski forfeited the right to defend himself in court against her claim because he fled the country and never faced sentencing.

The high court rejected the argument and refused to hear an appeal in the case.

Polanski currently lives as a fugitive in Paris and continues to make movies.

The young woman is identified only by the name "Jane Doe" on the court documents.

Polanski pleaded guilty in August, 1977, to unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor in an incident that took place at the home of actor Jack Nicholson.