Tito Beltran's rape trial set to begin

YSTAD, Sweden, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Some of Sweden's biggest stars are expected to testify at the upcoming rape trial of opera singer Tito Beltran, The Local said Thursday.

The tenor's trial is slated to begin in Ystad Friday.

Beltran, 42, is accused of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old nanny at a hotel in Notesjo in Skane after he performed at a concert in the area in 1999.

Former Justice Minister Thomas Bodstrom is set to represent the alleged victim, who was employed by actress Maria Lundqvist at the time of the supposed rape.

Beltran has denied the charges, contending they were drummed up by a former relative, a prosecutor and some of his colleagues in the entertainment industry.

His version of the encounter, which he has described as "very innocent," has the woman entering his room, stripping down to her underwear and sleeping in the same bed with him.

Musicians Anders Berglund and Robert Wells are both expected to testify by phone at the trial since they are out of the country, while singers Carola Haggkvist and Lill Lindfors are reportedly scheduled to attend the trial.