If it was anyone else besides the richest man in Italy, this would be very serious. In his case, even with his recent loss in court it would be surprising to see him prosecuted for this alleged crime. Either way, considering his past does this really come as a surprise? Somehow the political class in many western democracies (including the US) almost always walk away from crimes that would mean a prison sentence to others. Just ask Bush or anyone in his administration.
Silvio Berlusconi was tonight facing the potentially devastating possibility that he might be put on trial as an alleged sex offender.
The chief prosecutor in his home city of Milan said the Italian prime minister had been formally placed under investigation on suspicion of having sex with an underage prostitute. He was also accused of abusing his position to pressure the police.
The offences carry sentences totalling up to 15 years in jail. Berlusconi had not been charged, but had been invited to present himself for questioning, according to the prosecutor's statement.
