By Emily Kent Smith In Tucson, Arizona
Published: 22:41 BST, 5 June 2019 | Updated: 22:41 BST, 5 June 2019
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Philip Green has hired a top lawyer who is also representing Kevin Spacey
Philip Green has hired a top lawyer who is also representing Kevin Spacey as he tries to fight off assault charges in the US.
The Topshop billionaire is accused of groping a pilates instructor by slapping her bottom ‘vigorously’ when she was running a fitness session.
He is recruiting Alan Jackson, who was in court this week defending Spacey, 59, on charges of indecent assault and battery of an 18-year-old man. Sir Philip is said to have spanked Katie Surridge up to ten times at the Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, in 2016.
He returned to the ranch last year and is alleged to have touched the 37-year-old again.
The tycoon, who owns a £2.3million house at the retreat, was charged with four counts of misdemeanour assault last week after a police investigation. Sir Philip saw his spa privileges temporarily suspended over the alleged incidents. Canyon Ranch, which costs around £750 a night, ruled after an investigation that he should not ‘be around’ spa worker Mrs Surridge.
Former UK employees have accused Sir Philip of sexual harassment and racism – but no case has been brought here.
He will not have to attend court in person on June 19 and can still travel to the US for leisure reasons. He will not be extradited on the
