Christian Bale Avoids Assault Charges

Batman movie star Christian Bale will not face charges in connection with assault claims by his mother and sisters in a London hotel last month, British prosecutors said Thursday.

British media reported the claims of the assault by his mother, Jenny Bale, and sister Sharon Bale, which allegedly took place the night of July 21 at a hotel in London -- the day before the European premiere of the "Batman Begins" sequel "The Dark Knight." Christian Bale was arrested two days later and questioned by British authorities, but was not charged.

England's Crown Prosecution Service said that Bale would not be charged because there is insufficient evidence to afford a "realistic prospect of conviction."

The service ordered the police not to take any further action.

Bale's representative issued a statement immediately after the actor was arrested to deny the claims.

"Christian Bale attended a London police station today (July 23) on a voluntary basis, in order to assist with an allegation that had been made against him to the police by his mother and sister," the actor's representatives said. "Mr. Bale, who denies the allegation, cooperated throughout, gave his account in full of the events in question and has left the station without any charge being made against him by the police. At this time, there will be no further comment by Mr. Bale."

Bale spent four hours at a London police station before being released on bail.

The actor is currently at work on the "Terminator" sequel "Terminator Salvation," in which he plays John Connor, the future's leader in the war against the machines.

"The Dark Knight" has shattered box office records worldwide since its July 18 release and has made $449 million domestically to date.