US actor probed over child molestation claims

Los Angeles police are reviewing a 2012 probe into US actor Stephen Collins in light of an audio tape in which he allegedly admitted to molesting at least three young girls, a spokesman said Tuesday.

Collins, known for playing a wholesome pastor in TV series "7th Heaven," has been fired from a sequel to satirical movie "Ted" following the revelation by celebrity news website TMZ, media reports said.

In the audio tape obtained by TMZ, the 67-year-old actor appears to admit during a 2012 therapy session to inappropriate behavior with at least three under-age girls.

"There was one moment of touching where her hand ... I put her hand on my penis," he is heard to say, referring to an 11-year-old girl.

A spokesman for the LA Police Department (LAPD) said officers were reviewing an investigation into a criminal complaint filed at the time.

"We are reviewing the investigation to make sure nothing was missed, and we are collaborating with New York (authorities) to assist them if we can," said spokeswoman Nuria Vanegas.

"The case here has not been reopened, but we are reviewing the case for accuracy," she added.

TV station UPTV decided to cancel reruns of "7th Heaven" following publication of the audio tape, according to industry journal Variety, adding that Collins had been fired from "Ted 2."

TMZ also reported that Collins resigned Tuesday from the national board of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), before the end of his three-year term.

Representatives for Collins did not respond to requests for comment.

"7th Heaven," which originally ran from 1996-2007, followed the Camden family as the minister father and stay-at-home mother cope with their seven children, ranging from toddlers to adults with families of their own.

Collins was nominated for a Primetime Emmy in 1987 for "The Two Mrs Grenvilles." His other credits include parts in 1976's "All the President's Men" and 2006's "Blood Diamond."