Berlusconi sex trial web expands

ROME, May 6 (UPI) -- Italian prosecutors say they want to talk to three associates of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, alleging they helped him find women for sex parties.

Prosecutors in Milan want to question Nicole Minetti, Berlusconi's former dental hygienist; Emilio Fede, a veteran news anchor at one of Berlusconi's television news channels; and talent scout Lele Mora, ANSA reported Friday.

Thirty-three young women, including a minor, were involved in alleged prostitution at parties held by Berlusconi, who is charged with sex-related offenses, from the start of 2009 through January 2011, prosecutors alleged.

They said Karima el-Mahroug, a Moroccan runaway and belly dancer known as Ruby, was 17 when Berlusconi allegedly paid her for sex.

Berlusconi, 74, maintains his innocence, saying he is the victim of a smear campaign. Fede, Minetti and Mora also deny the charges and say the parties were innocent affairs.

Berlusconi's next hearing is scheduled for May 31.