UPDATE, 2 PM:The Associated Press reports that a judge in Italy has ordered Paul Haggis, the film director, to be released from house detention while prosecutors decide whether or not to proceed with their investigation into sexual assault allegations against him.
Haggis was under police detention at a hotel in south Italy since June 19, following claims by a British woman that Haggis had had non-consensual sexual relations with her during his visit to Italy for an arts festival.
According to Haggis lawyer, Haggis maintained his innocence.
PREVIOUS, June 22:A judge in Italy ruled Wednesday that Paul Haggis, director of the Italian Investigating Court, will be placed under house arrest pending ongoing investigations into sexual assault allegations against him.
Haggis is a Canadian film director. CrashAfter being accused by a British woman of having been subject to non-consensual sexual sex, he has been placed under arrest in Ostuni, just outside Brindisi, since Sunday.
Vilma Gilli, a local investigating judge, decided to extend Haggis’ house arrest today following a three-hour preliminary hearing in Brindisi with Haggis on Wednesday morning. The director was not eligible for detention in prison, as there was no risk of him trying to flee.
Laforgia stated to journalists that Haggis had declared his independence after this morning’s hearing. “complete innocence”Reiterated that any relationship with the woman was consensual.
He stated that the director had been completely cooperative with Italian authorities. He had no intention to leave until his name was cleared.
Next, there will be an outside hearing to hear special evidence. The date has not yet been set.
Haggis was visiting southern Italy to attend Allora Film Festival in Ostuni. He was also due to present a masterclass.
According to local media reports he first met his accuser in April at a Monte Carlo Film Festival. Since then they have maintained regular contact, which led to him inviting her to accompany him on the Italian trip.