James Deen Porn Studio Slammed with Fines for Allegedly Failing to Use Condoms

WOODLAND HILLS, CA - James Deen Productions, an adult-film studio based in Los Angeles, was slammed with nine citations and $77,875 in fines today for allegedly having filming sex scenes without protecting actors with condoms, a violation of the California's new bloodborne pathogens standard.

The fines were triggered by a Jan. 12 film shoot in Woodland Hills, where inspectors allegedly found actors working without condoms. According to Cal/OSHA, producers also failed to provide vaccines or follow-up exams for performers who may have been exposed to hepatitis B during the shoot.

Third Rock Enterprises, which represents James Deen Productions, could not immediately be reached for comment.

"Cal/OSHA requires condom use in adult films to protect workers from exposure to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections," agency chief Juliann Sum said. "Third Rock Enterprises failed to protect employees from illness and injury while on set."

According to investigators, owner Bryan Sevilla -- known by his film name James Deen -- and his lawyers "refused to provide Cal/OSHA with requested safety documentation or permission to investigate."

The state's investigation of the studio began in December, and according to the agency, producers stonewalled efforts to inspect the jobsite. As a result, regulators obtained a warrant that allowed the Jan. 12 inspection, according to Cal/OSHA.

James Deen Productions was hit with citations for nine alleged violations, including four considered "serious," which designates a violation that could cause serious harm or death, according to Cal/OSHA.

City News Service; Photo: Wikimedia Commons