Brazilian footballer Dani Alves is facing a nine-year prison sentence for alleged sexual assault, as per Spanish prosecutors.
Allegations and Trial
Alves is accused of assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub in December. Despite denying wrongdoing, he faces a trial after an investigative judge found sufficient evidence for prosecution.
Prosecution’s Demands
Prosecutors seek a 150,000 euro damages payment and a 10-year no-contact order if Alves is found guilty. Additionally, they want him under supervision for a decade post-prison, with a prohibition on working with minors in line with Spanish law.
Legal Implications
Under Spain’s new sexual consent law, a charge of sexual assault encompasses a range of offenses, from online abuse to rape, each with varying penalties. A rape conviction could lead to a maximum 15-year sentence.
Pre-Trial Detention
The 40-year-old Alves has been in pre-trial detention since January, with all bail requests denied due to flight risk concerns. Despite offering to surrender passports and wear a tracking device, his requests for freedom have been opposed by prosecutors.
Professional Background
Alves, a prominent footballer with 42 titles, faces career restrictions if convicted, including a ban on working with minors. His lawyers have not commented on the case.