Portuguese TV celebrity says he is a defendant in paedophilia case

Lusa news agency

Herman Jose [TV celebrity] was today made a defendant in the Casa Pia case [paedophilia scandal involving state-run children's home], as he himself told Lusa.

Smiling and in a rush, Herman Jose left the Investigation and Penal Action Department [of the Public Prosecutor's Office] where he was questioned in connection with the ongoing paedophilia scandal. Before getting into his car, he shouted out that he would be presenting the [Portuguese] Golden Globe awards ceremony this evening.

The comedian was notified to make a statement at the department as a witness in the Casa Pia case, but it was not known what his legal status was as he left the building after being heard by Prosecutor Joao Guerra.

"Golden Globes at 10 o'clock," Herman Jose shouted out twice before getting in his green BMW which was waiting for him outside the building on Casal Ribeiro Street.

The actor and his lawyer left, protected by a strong police cordon, as journalists and onlookers pushed to get nearer.

There was great tension as everyone tried to talk to him.

A source linked to the process told Lusa that Herman Jose will not be kept on remand.

There were doubts whether he would host the SIC's [private TV station] Golden Globe awards ceremony taking place today at Coliseu dos Recreios in Lisbon at 2200.