La. senator denies prostitution allegation

WASHINGTON, July 17 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-La., said this week that an allegation linking him to several New Orleans prostitutes is completely unfounded.

The junior Louisiana senator, who previously admitted to having ties with the "D.C. Madam," said he did not have a relationship with any of the prostitutes currently involved in a major New Orleans prostitution case, CNN reported Tuesday.

Vitter paired his denial of the prostitution allegation on Monday with an emotional apology to those hurt by the growing illicit sex scandal.

"I know this has hurt the relationship of trust I've enjoyed with so many of you," the 46-year-old senator said.

Vitter was originally linked to Deborah Jeane Palfrey's escort service when his phone number was found on the "D.C. Madam's" phone records.

Vitter's wife, Wendy, said Monday that she has already forgiven her husband for using the alleged prostitution service several years ago.

"I made the decision to love him and to recommit to our marriage. To forgive is not always the easy choice, but it was, and is, the right choice for me," she said. "I am proud to be Wendy Vitter."