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FRANCE: Case DSK: the civil trial could be held late February

 

If criminal prosecution for sexual crimes against Dominique Strauss-Kahn have been abandoned in New York August 23, 2011, the former head of the International Monetary Fund still faces a civil proceedings in the United States for violent and sadistic aggression against Nafissatou Diallo. According to information published by "Le Figaro", a Bronx judge should convene soon the lawyers on both sides for details. A first civil hearing should be held to "the next two to three weeks," understands the French daily

Diplomatic immunity in question

Justice Douglas McKeon, the court trying the case in the Bronx since the opening of the Civil Procedure on August 8, wishes to call on both sides so that each presents its arguments. Discussions are expected would be about technical issues. Including the issue of diplomatic immunity enjoyed by DSK because of his status as head of the IMF. During the criminal proceedings, the prosecutor in New York Cyrus Vance, had held that this immunity did not apply, DSK is visiting as an individual at the relevant time. Lawyers for the accused will attempt to show otherwise. The presence of the two protagonists is not mandatory.

To a transaction?

Choosing a court in the Bronx by Nafissatou Diallo seemed to be motivated by the idea that jurors, from New York neighborhoods to black majority, it would be more favorable. Remains the United States, these civil trial ends "in 80% of cases" with a financial transaction, said "Le Figaro". If the judge's office says McKeon have no indication of a possible negotiation, the parties could already chat backstage without informing the court. The "case of the Sofitel" would end amicably with the payment of several million dollars to the complainant. Nafissatou Diallo's lawyers could use the case of Carlton in Lille before any negotiations: Dominique Strauss-Kahn, whose name was mentioned in an investigation into a case of pandering, asking to be heard in this matter. It has not been summoned but could be in the coming days.