Mario Batali’s sexual misconduct trial is underway.
The celebrity chef’s accuser took the stand today to recount how she’d been “shocked, surprised and alarmed” as Batali aggressively kissed and groped her while taking selfies at a restaurant in 2017.
Batali’s lawyer argued that the assault never happened saying, “She’s not being truthful. This is being fabricated for money and for fun.”
Batali, in a surprise move, waived his right to a jury trial and has opted for a judge decide his fate.
He pleaded not guilty but could face two years in jail and be required to register as a sex offender if convicted.
