There is
growing concern across the Hudson Valley about Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who is now
apologizing after a second former aide has accused him of sexual harassment.
This latest accusation came out over the weekend
prompting more calls from both sides of the political aisle for
an independent investigation.
The latest allegation comes from 25-year-old Katonah native Charlotte Bennett.
The former executive
assistant and health policy adviser to Gov. Cuomo claims that during one of
several uncomfortable encounters Cuomo asked her questions about her sex life
and whether she'd ever had sex with older men.
This comes within the same
week that former executive assistant Lindsey Boylan accused the governor of
sexually harassing her and kissing her on the lips.
Cuomo maintains that he
never inappropriately touched or propositioned anyone and denies kissing
Boylan.
However, the 63-year-old
Democrat released a statement that reads, in part, "I have teased people about
their personal lives, their relationships, about getting married or not getting
married. I mean no offense and only attempt to add some levity
and banter to what is a very serious business."
News 12
spoke to one person from Katonah
who asked not to be identified but says he knows Bennett and believes her
claim. "I know
Charlotte Bennett to be a person of the highest caliber. She understands
the seriousness, and I don't think she has an ulterior
motive. I have no reason to doubt her."
The New York Times has reported that at third woman came forward Monday and accused the governor of an unwanted advance at a wedding.