Mario Batali reportedly under NYPD investigation for two separate sexual assault allegations

CBS News

Anderson Cooper revealed at the end of his 60 Minutes story on Batali's sexual misconduct that the NYPD is investigating the former Food Network star for a sexual assault incident that allegedly took place at his New York City eatery The Spotted Pig in 2005. The accuser, a former Batali employee who appeared on 60 Minutes anonymously, said she joined Batali for a glass of wine, but she barely remembered what happened next. When she woke up in the morning, she says she found "deep scratches" on her leg and semen on her skirt. Meanwhile, TMZ reports the NYPD is investigating a second woman's allegation that Batali raped her in 2004 at Babbo, another of his New York City restaurants. TMZ reports the woman was a customer who went upstairs to use the bathroom at 2 a.m. The next thing she remembered is Batali allegedly on top of her. TMZ says the woman filed a police report in March of this year. Batali issued a statement to 60 Minutes denying the first allegation, saying: “I vehemently deny the allegation that I sexually assaulted this woman. My past behavior has been deeply inappropriate and I am sincerely remorseful for my actions. I am not attempting a professional comeback."