Man who claims French-language TV reporter credentials is accused of preying on women in NYC

Man who claims TV credentials is NY rape suspect

NEW YORK — Prosecutors say a man who holds himself out to be an accomplished French-language TV journalist has committed a series of crimes against women in New York.

Hugues-Denver (HEWE’) Akassy has been charged with raping a Russian tourist in a park last month, lurking on another woman’s fire escape and harassing a third woman. Prosecutors say they’re also examining his dealings in Washington, D.C.

His lawyer says Akassy denies the allegations.

Akassy is being held on $100,000 bail.

The 42-year-old Ivory Coast native’s website says he runs a public-affairs TV production company. But some of those listed as producers and sponsors have told newspapers they never worked with him.