Swiss Cantonal Council Member Allegedly Abused Prostitutes in Zurich
Published: Monday, Jul 3rd 2023, 03:41
Updated At: Friday, Oct 13th 2023, 14:12
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Bernhard Diethelm, a member of the Swiss Cantonal Council from the Swiss People's Party (SVP), is facing trial today Monday for attempted rape at the District Court of Zurich. He is accused of assaulting a prostitute. Diethelm denies the allegations and claims it is a private matter. The prosecution is demanding a four-year prison sentence. The 40-year-old is alleged to have booked the prostitute for sadomasochistic role-playing and paid 4200 francs for several hours. He is accused of trying to overpower the woman, grabbing her from behind, choking her and ripping out her hair extensions. The prosecution believes he was attempting to rape her, as he allegedly tried to drug her with an unknown substance. He was wearing a black FFP2 mask during the alleged attack. The SVP of the Canton of Schwyz called for Diethelm's membership to be suspended after the allegations became known. Diethelm spoke to the media last week, calling it a private matter that had nothing to do with his political activities. The prosecution is relying solely on the statements of the prostitute. Diethelm has refused to resign as a cantonal councillor, saying it would be an admission of guilt. He feels he has been pre-judged by the media. The presumption of innocence applies.
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