NYPD investigating sex allegations against celebrity chef Mario Batali

AP logo
Monday, May 21, 2018
NYPD investigating sex allegations against celebrity chef Mario Batali
Kemberly Richardson has more on the investigation into celebrity chef Mario Batali.

NEW YORK -- The New York Police Department is investigating allegations of sexual misconduct leveled against celebrity chef Mario Batali.

The NYPD confirmed the probe following a "60 Minutes" broadcast Sunday night in which an unnamed woman accused Batali of drugging and sexually assaulting her in 2005.

She says she remembers joining him for a glass of wine at a Manhattan restaurant, then waking up on the floor feeling drugged and assaulted. She says she talked to the police but never filed a report.

"I vehemently deny any allegations of sexual assault," Batali said in a statement to ABC News. "My past behavior has been deeply inappropriate and I am sincerely remorseful for my actions. I am not attempting a professional comeback. My only focus is finding a personal path forward where I can continue in my charitable endeavors -- helping the underprivileged and those in need."

Batali stepped down from daily operations at his restaurant empire and cooking show "The Chew" in December after four women accused him of inappropriate touching over a period of 20 years.

Batali has apologized for those encounters.

The NYPD released a statement saying, "The NYPD is investigating allegations raised in the 60 Minutes report."