Post date: Jun 03, 2013 12:54:41 PM
The defence team representing Silvio Berlusconi in a sex trial requests the court absolve the former prime minister saying the facts do not add up against him.
MILAN, ITALY (JUNE 3, 2013) (REUTERS) - The defence team representing Silvio Berlusconi in a sex trial, told a court in Milan on Monday (June 3) that the former prime minister should be absolved.
Berlusconi is accused of paying for sex with former nightclub dancer Karima El Mahroug, alias "Ruby the Heartstealer", when she was under 18 years old. He is also accused of abusing office by having her freed from police custody after her arrest for theft.In closing arguments made by defence lawyer Niccolo Ghedini, Berlusconi's lawyer said the facts simply did not add up against the former prime minister and he should be let off all charges.
Prosecutors have asked for a six-year jail term as well as a lifetime ban on holding public office for the media magnate, who denies all charges and says he never had sexual relations with El Mahroug.
El Mahroug has denied ever being a prostitute or having sex with the 76-year-old Berlusconi, but has said she attended parties at his palatial residence near Milan where she received thousands of euros.
Berlusconi has said he is the victim of prosecutors and judges who are politically opposed to him.
A final verdict in the trial is expected later in June.