British tycoon Philip Green charged with touching fitness instructor inappropriately
What's the story
British retail mogul Sir Philip Green of Arcadia Group has been charged in the US with four counts of misdemeanor after a fitness instructor accused him of touching her inappropriately.
He's accused of spanking an Arizona pilates instructor at Tucson's Canyon Ranch resort in 2016 and 2018.
Each count potentially carries a sentence of upto 30 days in prison, said Pima County Attorney's Office.
Allegations
Allegations against Green made by pilates instructor Katie Surridge
The allegations against Green were made by pilates instructor Katie Surridge who told the police that he touched her inappropriately at the resort.
She reportedly told Pima County Detective David Stivers that Green, whom she termed as "creepy old man", vigorously slapped her bottom in Jan'16.
While the resort staff assured such a thing wouldn't happen again, Green allegedly assaulted her again in Jan'18.
Statement
Green strenuously denies allegations of sexual misconduct: Arcadia Group
On behalf of Green, Arcadia Group issued a statement that he "strenuously denies" the allegations, reported CNN.
The statement said the businessman "strenuously denies these allegations and is disappointed that the charges have been filed in his absence and they are minor categories of misdemeanor in the United States."
It also denied "any allegation of any sexual assault or misconduct made by the prosecution."
Hearing
Green due to appear in court on 19 June
According to Britain's Press Association, the charges also carry a $500 fine apart from 30 days in prison.
As per Pima County court records, which were posted online, Green was due to appear on 19 June for an arraignment hearing for the charges.
However, according to Arcadia Group's statement, Green doesn't plan to attend the court hearing in person.
Information