Dascha Polanco not worried about assault allegations

Orange Is The New Black star Dascha Polanco is refusing to let allegations she physically attacked a 17-year-old girl ruin her festive spirit, because she knows she'll be exonerated of any charges or guilt.

The actress appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court in New York on her recent 33rd birthday on 3 December (15), accused of violently attacking 17-year-old Michelle Cardona in July (15) during an altercation at Polanco's apartment.

"Ms. Cardona observed the defendant strike Ms. Cardona about the face and head with a closed fist at least three times, pull Ms. Cardona's hair, and strike Ms. Cardona's arms with the defendant's hands and nails," prosecutors state in the criminal complaint.

But the Orange is the New Black inmate insists she's not worried, stating, "People that know me and know my quality, my professionalism, who I am... they're not worried. And neither am I."

Polanco, who will appear opposite Jennifer Lawrence in new film Joy, must return to court next month (Jan16).