CHARLIE CHAPLIN - MOVIE COMPANY WAS FRONT FOR DRUG RUNNERS SAY FEDS

A Sunset-Strip movie company, headed by the granddaughter of Charlie Chaplin, was actually a money-laundering front for an international drug-smuggling operation, according to federal authorities. The alleged criminal activities of Limelight Films were reported today (Thursday) in the Los Angeles Times, which said that Limelight principals Bruno D'Esclavelles and Alexandre De Basseville were arrested during a sting operation in Arlington, VA last month. In a brochure, the company described itself as having "a desire to promote worldwide talented individuals who treasure cinema and cherish the creative spirit of Charlie Chaplin." Kiera Chaplin, the 23-year-old granddaughter of Charlie, who was once engaged to De Basseville, was serving as president of the company. She has not been charged.

20/07/2006