Police in India are hoping that legendary actor Robert De Niro answers their questions about an alleged sexual assault that took place at an event last November in the state of Goa. The founder and editor of the magazine that hosted the event is accused of sexually assaulting a former employee.
The Goodfellas actor attended the THiNK event, which was hosted by Tehelka. The magazine's founder, Tarun Tejpal, was accused of assaulting a woman in an elevator just after they took De Niro to his suite at the Grand Hyatt Hotel there. Press Trust of India has reported that the Goa police sent a questionnaire to De Niro and his attorney this month, reports The Hollywood Reporter.
However, they have not received an answer. According to Times of India, police have sent a ‘reminder notice’ via email. De Niro’s attorney had said that the actor would cooperate when they first got the questionnaire on Jan. 7.
De Niro has to look over video footage and corroborate the events for the police investigation. Police already have 50 recorded statements from Tehelka staffers, hotel employees and others.
Tejpal is still in jail. He was arrested on Nov. 30. The incident earned widespread attention in India, since his magazine is known for reporting on corruption and women’s issues.
While De Niro was in India, he also went to Mumbai to visit an acting school started by his Silver Linings Playbook co-star, Anupam Kher.
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