Ed Westwick rape allegation 'being investigated by LAPD'

Gossip Girl actor denies the claim

The LAPD is reportedly investigating Kristina Cohen's claim (AFP/Getty)

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is reportedly investigating an allegation of rape against Gossip Girl star Ed Westwick.

Mr Westwick has publicly denied the claims actress Kristina Cohen made in a Facebook post on Monday.

On Twitter, he said: “I do not know this woman. I have never forced myself in any manner, on any woman. I certainly have never committed rape.”

Ms Cohen filed a complaint with the LAPD, whose sex crime unit is now investigating, according to The Los Angeles Times.

She claimed she was attacked as she slept at a house party three years ago.

A British-born actor living in Los Angeles, Mr Westwick gained fame as a main character in The CW drama Gossip Girl which ran between 2007 and 2012.

He made his film debut in 2006’s Children of Men and is currently starring in the BBC Two comedy series White Gold.

The LAPD is also investigating Harvey Weinstein, the Hollywood mogul whose downfall has precipitated a wave of claims of sexual misconduct against public figures.

The Metropolitan Police is investigating seven claims against Mr Weinstein.