SNOWBALLING

Publicist Kelly Cutrone Accuses Russell Simmons of Attempted Rape

As NYPD reportedly opens investigation into allegations against him.

A publicist and TV personality came forward Thursday to accuse rap mogul Russell Simmons of attempted rape, adding to a spate of sexual-misconduct allegations against him. Kelly Cutrone told Page Six the alleged incident occurred in 1991, when she says the star “pushed me into his apartment and then he threw me down on the floor and literally tried to grab… take my clothes off of me.” Cutrone said she decided to come forward after seeing Simmons try to launch a #NotMe campaign to deny sexual-assault allegations against him. Cutrone’s account of the alleged attempted rape came the same day the New York Police Department opened up an investigation into the allegations of sexual misconduct against him, according to Los Angeles Times. The force’s special victims unit has reportedly begun reaching out to the women who have accused Simmons of sexual misconduct, including rape. A total of 13 women have accused the rap icon of sexual misconduct, according to People. Simmons has denied the allegations.