Elmo puppeteer accused of relationship with 16-year-old boy
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Elmo talks with his father before he goes overseas during a portion of the "Talk, Listen, Connect: Helping Families During Military Deployment” program., Photo Credit: Courtesy: Sesame Workshop and Richard Termine Image by Courtesy: Sesame Workshop and Richard Termine
Web Producer: Laura Kittell
NEW YORK (AP) - The puppeteer who performs as Elmo on "Sesame Street" is taking a leave of absence from the popular kids' show following allegations that he had a relationship with a 16-year-old boy.
Sesame Workshop says puppeteer Kevin Clash denies the charges, which were first made in June by the alleged partner, who by then was 23.
In a statement issued Monday, Sesame Workshop said its investigation found the allegation of underage conduct to be unsubstantiated. But it said Clash exercised "poor judgment" and was disciplined for violating company policy regarding Internet usage. It offered no details.
At his request, Clash has been granted a leave of absence in order to "protect his reputation," Sesame Workshop says. No duration for the leave was specified. Clash has voiced and animated Elmo since the 1980s.
(Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
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