Paula Poundstone's Day in Court

Paula Poundstone's Day in Court
Tuesday July 3, 2001

She is known for her dry, sarcastic sense of humor, her edgy stand-up act, and her trademark jacket and tie. But today, Paula Poundstone was fighting back tears in front of an L.A courthouse before pleading "not guilty" to four felony counts of lewd conduct against children.

The 41-year old comedian has everything to lose. She's facing up to 13 years in prison and her three-adopted children and two-foster kids have already been taken into protective custody.

Poundstone hugged and thanked her friends, who showed up at the courthouse to provide support. Those friends insist Poundstone's a great mom who could never hurt a child.

Poundstone maintained a brave face and she even joked when asked how she felt about keep all her friends waiting more than 45 minutes before showing up to court.

Today, Poundstone was ordered by the judge to stay away from all children, including her own. The woman who has made a living making people laugh, now faces a grim struggle against the most serious of charges.

CNN.com: Comic Poundstone pleads innocent

You Be The Judge:
Download the court documents for the case.