Couple charged with alleged beach sex

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 26 (UPI) -- A British man and woman will face serious criminal charges in United Arab Emirates for allegedly having sex on a public beach, authorities say.

Police in Dubai have charged Michelle Palmer, 36, and Vince Acors, 34, with indecent behavior, having unmarried sex and alcohol consumption for allegedly having sex in public, The Daily Telegraph reported Friday.

If convicted on all counts, Palmer and Acors could each face a maximum prison sentence of six years.

A police officer arrested the two British nationals July 5.

Acors has since denied having sex in public, but did express regret for his actions. Meanwhile, Palmer has left her job since the sex allegations arose.

The British newspaper noted it is illegal in the United Arab Emirates to have sexual relations outside of marriage.