VADIM PERELMAN - DIRECTOR GOES TO COURT FOR GROPING

DIRECTOR GOES TO COURT FOR GROPING

VADIM PERELMAN, who directed the 2003 film HOUSE OF SAND AND FOG, appeared in a Norwalk, Connecticut court on Monday (31JUL06) on charges he groped two women and punched another at a nightclub. During his appearance, the 42-year-old director asked for a special type of probation that would provide accelerated rehabilitation. He would have no criminal record if he successfully completes his probation. Perelman faces a third-degree assault charge and two counts of fourth-degree sexual assault, or sexual contact without consent. The incidents allegedly occurred at a South Norwalk nightclub on 22 July (06). His attorney, PAUL CALLAN said, "Mr Perelman never intended to harm anyone during the evening in question." The Superior Court judge said the case was to be continued to 16 October (06).