French authorities are taking another look at a woman's rape accusation against the government's budget chief, who denies the allegation. The prime minister's office expressed support Saturday for Budget Minister Gerald Darmanin and said it would be up to the justice system to investigate. Darmanin is the highest-ranking French official accused of sexual misconduct since the scandals that started with Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein in October snowballed into a movement affecting numerous industries and countries. Speaking on radio network France-Info earlier this month, he acknowledged receiving a letter accusing him of abuse of power and possibly rape. France has seen widespread outrage over sexual violence and harassment in recent months, as well as an increasing number of police reports for sexual misconduct.

Source: ABC News January 27, 2018 13:26 UTC