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Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema denies having 'sexual relations' with prostitute at centre of France under-age sex scandal
International released after being charged...
21 Jul 2010 17:50:00
By Matt Monaghan
The lawyer of Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has stated his client denies having "sexual relations" with the prostitute at the centre of the France under-age sex scandal.
Both Benzema and France team-mate Franck Ribery have been charged with 'solicitation of a minor prostitute' and released by judge Andre Dando following questioning by police. The players came under investigation after they were alleged to have paid for sex with Zahia Dehar when she was working in Zaman Cafe - a bar on the Champs-Elysees in Paris - while under-age.
Speaking to reporters, Sylvain Cormier said: "He disputes what Zahia [Dehar] said. He's not had sexual relations with her. There is no reason why his word should count less than hers."
Prostitution is legal in France, but prostitutes must be over 18 years old, and clients are liable if they are not of legal age. The offence is punishable by three years in prison and 45,000 euros fine under French law.
During the investigation, Zahia had told the police she had sex with players - including Franck Ribery, in 2009, and Karim Benzema in 2008 - when she was under-age.
Cormier also went on to criticise the release of the information to the press: "This indictment is appalling and the file has also been made available to the media, with incalculable consequences."
| Bet: | Returns: | France £11.25 | Draw £65.00 | Estonia £170.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | France £11.70 | Draw £55.00 | Estonia £120.00 |
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| Bet: | Returns: | France £11.67 | Draw £65.00 | Estonia £150.00 |
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Speaking to reporters, Sylvain Cormier said: "He disputes what Zahia [Dehar] said. He's not had sexual relations with her. There is no reason why his word should count less than hers."
Prostitution is legal in France, but prostitutes must be over 18 years old, and clients are liable if they are not of legal age. The offence is punishable by three years in prison and 45,000 euros fine under French law.
During the investigation, Zahia had told the police she had sex with players - including Franck Ribery, in 2009, and Karim Benzema in 2008 - when she was under-age.
Cormier also went on to criticise the release of the information to the press: "This indictment is appalling and the file has also been made available to the media, with incalculable consequences."
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