Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former IMF Managing Director who was accused in May of sexually assaulting a hotel maid, was released from police custody on his own recognizance this morning.
Strauss-Kahn’s release came after prosecutors determined that the victim’s credibility was in question. According to the New York Times, although forensic tests found evidence of a sexual relationship between him and the hotel maid, prosecutors do not believe much of her accusations.
Strauss-Kahn was accused of attacking a housekeeper, a 32- year-old from Guinea, at the Sofitel hotel in New York City on May 14, grabbing her breasts and attempting to pull down her pantyhose. The former IMF head attempted to rape her and forced her to give him oral sex, according to the indictment. Strauss-Kahn’s semen and DNA were found on the victim’s clothing.
He was indicted on seven counts, including attempted rape, sexual abuse, unlawful imprisonment and forcible touching. If convicted of the top charges, he could face as much as 25 years in prison.
Polls had shown Strauss-Kahn as the potential candidate with the best chance of beating French President Nicolas Sarkozy in next May’s general election. Socialist Party candidates have until July 13 of this year to register for the primary election in October.
Reports have also surfaced that the French are quite upset with how Strauss-Kahn was treated following his arrest, and feel his chances at winning the election have been compromised.
While he may be cleared of any criminal wrongdoing in this case, it is quite clear that Strauss-Kahn had an extramarital affair with the hotel maid. Furthermore, he has a history of inappropriate behavior around women, including a relationship with a former IMF employee.
As was the case with Bill Clinton, it appears that many citizens in both the U.S. and France unfortunately do not seem to mind if their leaders are unfaithful to their spouses and lack a certain moral fiber.
Platinum Group Metals Reports Acceptance of WBJV Mining Rights Application
Platinum Group Metals (PLG.NYSE AMEX) announcement that the South African Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) has accepted the Company’s application for a mining right for the WBJV Project 1 Platinum Mine. This development indicates that the company has complied with submission requirements and can now proceed with the completion and submission of its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management Programme Report.
On March 28, the emerging platinum producer received the consent of the South African Department of Mineral Resources for the company's detailed underground development plans and environmental management program, including the mining of a bulk sample. Civil engineering contractors are mobilizing and development is advancing on the project, which is strategically located on the world’s most prolific platinum-producing belt.
Platinum Group Metals is also conducting exploration work on its Canadian properties located near Thunder Bay, Ontario. Full Platinum Group Metals News Release.
PLATINUM TO FOLLOW SILVER?
