French Police Investigate US Woman’s Allegations Against Late Harrods Owner

PARIS, France (AP) — French police have opened an investigation into allegations made by an American woman, Pelham Spong, claiming she was trafficked and sexually assaulted by the late Mohamed Al Fayed, former owner of Harrods. The investigation follows Spong’s testimony to police in Paris this week regarding incidents that took place in 2008.

Spong, who hails from South Carolina, asserts that Al Fayed had forcibly kissed her and offered her €65,000 a year to engage in sexual relations with him. Her allegations have raised alarm and led to scrutiny of the Ritz Hotel in Paris, which Al Fayed previously owned.

“They need to ascertain whether Al Fayed’s assistants and members of staff knew of what was being done in London,” said Anne-Claire Le Jeune, Spong’s lawyer. “There is a question for individuals but also for the institution itself.” Spong is determined to ensure transparency in the investigation.

The French investigation began after Spong contacted prosecutors this summer. She has indicated plans to file a criminal lawsuit regarding her experience. Le Jeune stated that investigators are exploring whether companions or employees assisted Al Fayed in these actions.

The Ritz Hotel has yet to comment on its involvement in the incident. However, Harrods has initiated a compensation scheme for alleged victims of Al Fayed’s misconduct.

Paris prosecutors are coordinating with the Metropolitan Police, who are conducting their own inquiry into possible facilitators of Al Fayed’s alleged offenses. The Met reported that at least 146 individuals have reached out to them about this investigation.

Spong recounts that she was recruited in Paris after moving there at age 23, under the pretext of a position as an executive assistant with Al Fayed’s team. Secrecy surrounded Al Fayed’s identity during recruitment, but her situation escalated upon her arrival in London for what was described as a “trial week.”

She described a medical examination that revealed a bacterial infection that Al Fayed referenced later, showcasing his inappropriate advances. Spong alleged that his offers extended beyond traditional employment, stating he wanted a personal assistant for a multitude of non-secretarial tasks.

This investigation sheds light on serious claims of human trafficking and exploitation connected to a high-profile figure, prompting ongoing discussions about accountability within luxury establishments.