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Closing arguments begin in Berlusconi case

Silvio Berlusconi (April 12, 2010, file photo). UPI/Kevin Dietsch

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Published: March. 4, 2013 at 1:48 PM

MILAN, Italy, March 4 (UPI) -- Prosecutors, in their closing arguments Monday, accused former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi of having a prostitution ring at his mansion near Milan.

Berlusconi is accused of paying to have sex with an underage Moroccan prostitute, Karima el-Mahroug, during alleged sex parties at his home.

Berlusconi and the woman deny having sex.

El-Mahroug said money she received from Berlusconi was given as part of a gift.

Prosecutors said the alleged prostitution ring was organized mainly by Nicole Minetti, a former Lombardy regional lawmaker and Berlusconi's former dental hygienist who is being tried in a different case. ANSA reported.

Prosecutors said retired television personality and Berlusconi friend Emilio Fede, along with bankrupt ex-talent scout Lele Mora, were involved in the ring. ANSA said they were being tried in a separate case.

Topics: Silvio Berlusconi

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