Former Brazilian international player is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday for a legal proceeding.
The Barcelona Court has scheduled a critical session for Dani Alves, the former Barcelona and Brazil international full-back, for tomorrow, Thursday, to deliver the verdict in his sexual assault trial.
This case has garnered significant attention due to the severity of the accusations and the high profile of the accused. Alves is facing a potential sentence of up to twelve years in prison if found guilty of the charges against him.
According to reports from the EFE news agency, Alves is required to be present in court at 10:30 a.m. for the pronouncement of the verdict. The allegations stem from an incident in December 2022, where Alves is accused of raping a 23-year-old woman in the bathroom of a nightclub in Barcelona. This serious accusation has led to a rigorous legal battle, with substantial consequences for Alves' freedom and reputation.
The Public Prosecutor's Office has taken a firm stance on the matter, recommending a nine-year prison sentence for Alves for the crime of sexual assault. This recommendation reflects the gravity of the charges and the evidence presented during the trial.
Furthermore, the private prosecution, represented by lawyer Ester García, is advocating for an even harsher punishment, seeking a twelve-year prison sentence for Alves, along with compensation of €150,000, aligning with the Public Prosecutor's Office's recommendation for damages.
In contrast, Alves' defense team is vigorously contesting the allegations, maintaining his innocence regarding the rape charge. They have requested the court to acquit Alves, arguing against the credibility of the accusations. As an alternative, should the court find grounds for conviction, the defense proposes a significantly lesser sentence of one year in prison for sexual assault, a plea that underscores their challenge to the severity of the charges faced by Alves.
This trial has placed Alves under intense scrutiny, both legally and publicly, as the court prepares to make a decision that could have lasting implications for his life and career. The outcome of this case is awaited with keen interest by the public, the media, and the football community, marking a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings against the celebrated footballer.