In 2007, Tristane Banon, a French journalist and writer, accused Strauss-Kahn of attempting to rape her in 2002, but she did not press charges.[21][22][23][24] In 2008, an independent investigator was appointed following allegations that Strauss-Kahn had had an affair with a subordinate, whom he later made redundant and assisted in getting a new job. Three charges were proven over an affair with economist Piroska Nagy, who was married at the time to Mario Blejer.[25] As a result of the affair, Strauss-Kahn was forced to issue a public apology, while Le Journal du Dimanche dubbed him "le grand séducteur" (the Great Seducer).[26]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominique_Strauss-Kahn

Smoke,fire,etc.
He has four daughters and insists on treating women in this fashion? WOW! I wonder how he would feel if other men treated his daughters this manner.

He has four daughters and insists on treating women in this fashion? WOW! I wonder how he would feel if men would treat his daughters this way.

I'm willing to bet he doesn't care.

How do you know he "ran"? I assume he was scheduled for the flight he was on. If he changed to an earlier flight, that would be more damning. LIkewise, saying "Looks like he left in a hurry." just because he left a cel phone behind also sounds like jumping to conclusions. If he left LOTS of stuff behind, that would also be different. Of course, anyone who really commits sexual assault deserves to be thrown in jail, but this sounds sort of iffy to me. I have no doubt this guy is a womanizer. However, this woman was in her 30's and not a child or teenage girl. Maybe she was timid and just automatically did what anyone suggests, but it's hard to imagine someone forcing someone else to perform oral sex at the spur of the moment. I realize sexual predators can coerce others into such acts, but I don't think it can be done in the time frame we're talking about here. Perhaps it's not a political setup as some have suggested, but maybe he was doing his usual extramarital thing with her consent and she decided someone who pays 3K a night for a room was a good target for blackmail or lawsuit. If she's just a "poor working girl" as David suggested, then he deserves punishment, but to me this doesn't add up.

Or you could have saved yourself a lot of typing here and just shortened your argument..."come on, she's just a maid--who would believe her?"

That doesn't summarize my argument at all. Obviously, someone DID believe her. I included several qualifications, and I didn't say she couldn't be telling the truth. However, I don't just automatically believe her, either. I merely pointed out some things that don't make sense to me. If she were assaulted, then it's terrible, and I hope justice is served. If he is being accused of forcing her to do something and it didn't happen that way, then that's also terrible, and she should be punished instead. If he didn't do it, the damage is already irreparable. It's not like she's being blown off. A woman who's "just a maid" made an accusation and it was taken seriously, as it should be. An influential man was thrown in jail and arraigned, so her interests are being respected. Certainly, the police couldn't let him board a plane with such an accusation out there, and maybe they're convinced she's telling the truth. We don't really know, and THAT is my argument. People seem to jump to conclusions, and it compelled me to say that there are several alternate possibilities.

Maybe she was timid and just automatically did what anyone suggests...

Radiopicture - so, you are suggesting that people automatically have oral sex with someone because he or she is timid? And what does age have to do with sexual assault?

My point exactly... I was trying to allow for different personality types, but it's hard for me to imagine someone being forced to do that. It's not allowed even consentually when either party is under age, but this person was in her 30's. This is what makes me think several possibilities could be the truth.

His flight was not scheduled, it was a race for the next plane out of the country, that's why he left his phone and did not even check out of the hotel. This seems like the steps of the guilty, had he gotten out of the US he would have been free because France would have covered for him and Obama would not have pushed for his arrest since France sided with him on Libya.

Misread what you said... If it was an assault, age doesn't change it, however an adult is less likely to be maneuvered into such a situation completely against their will. The reason I mentioned the timid factor, is that I imagine most women would do what was necessary to get out of there long before oral sex transpired. I realize it's probably not as easy as that when you're in the situation. but it does make me wonder if it's not as clear-cut as the charges described.

It was a race out of the country? I didn't see where they said he changed his flight or "didn't check out". Once again, conclusions are being jumped to. If he had a different flight scheduled, and he took this one instead, then it looks bad. However, he was to be at a meeting, so unless his flight itinerary changed, it's not all that telling. When I have a hotel room booked for a certain number of days, I leave the card in the room and leave without "checking out". That's common practice. And I'm sure the 3K a day types don't bother with such details. I'm not saying he's innocent... I'm saying what I've heard so far doesn't entirely convince me.

His wife, Anne Sinclair, is far from a golddigger she is wealthy from her family and do not need him at all money-wise.

Strauss-Khan was about to run for French presidency and in France it is not uncommon in such a context that politics face unexpected and curious accusations. According to recent polls Strauss-Khan was running ahead of any other candidates including president Sarkozy. Many people wanted to shot him down:

1) French gov and president Sarkozy. Strangely enough, the 2 first person to report Strauss-Khan's inculpation in France were people that participated to Sarkozy's 2007 campaign and this was 1h30 before any American media! i.e. they announced his inculpation even before he was actually arrested at JFK! Two weeks ago, Strauss-Khan told a famous French journal that some people were after him and that he felt they would try to dig out some dirt about him.

2) In his own political party! Before he could run for French presidency, Strauss-Khan would have had to be invested by his party next October. And there are tremendous canditates within his party that would like to run for French presidency.

3) IMF actions were very Europe-orientated since Strauss-Khan arrived and several people outside Europe were irritated by this.

4) It may just be a coincidence but Strauss-Khan was staying at a French hotel in NY. Such an hotel can easily be infiltrated by French secret agents (sent by French gov?) or any other French organization that wanted him down. They may have offered money to the maid so that she has sex with Strauss-Khan and then fake a rape.

I'm not saying he's done nothing, but there are several things to know about French politics to fully understand what's going on. If he did try to rape this person then he deserves what's happening. But even if he did not, he won't be able to run for French presidency after that and he will probably lose the IMF direction. Consipracy or not?... Let's see!

64 years, 7 brothers and half brothers, 11 nephews, 2 sons, 1 ex and I've yet to see any man step up to the plate when guilty and man up. Deny, deny, deny. But, the part I love best? Males who look for any reason to blame the woman instead of admitting that some hot to trot 62 year old guy likely with a regular Viagra prescription has to account for his own behavior.

Sure, all a hard working maid has to do is stop while she's cleaning a room and get all hot and bothered over this aging moneymonger. She probably didn't even know who he was. But, that won't stop the males in this country from blaming her and never him.

She gets raped...her fault for looking sexy. She gets raped and assaulted...she asked for it. She gets raped, assaulted and killed...and the poor iddy widdy little guy isn't mentally competent to be held responsible for his action.

The day I see or hear any man admit he is W-R-O-N-G...will probably be my last day on the planet. I'd keel over from shock. Deny, deny, deny....what else is new?

Since you hate men I asume you live alone. Hope you like it.

Radio-

Lets see- left his cell phone, did not check out, did not have a scheduled flight but was looking for the next available flight out of the country.......

GUILTY. He knew he did something wrong.

You cannot be that naive.........

Mike...You'd be wrong. I don't live alone. But neither do I have any intentions of pretending men are sexually mindless robots who should be allowed to do anything they want.

Every time one of you guys refuse to take responsibility for your behaviors, you prove exactly what women all know about all of you...that you want to be treated like irresponsible brainless idiots. Real men account for themselves. Only cowards can't man up. Most women start out assuming men want to be treated as if they have brains. Guys like this loon is just another of the "Get Away With Whatever You Can" brigade. Deny it...go ahead and you'll have proved my post is not only accurate but fact.

By the way my best friend of 28 years is a male. I'm single and I absolutely love every minute of it. I don't have an identity that is attached to any man. Grow up. I don't NEED any man....if they are part of the world I live in, it's because I allow them there.

Ewent: I like your view. Anyway, if a maid with injuries reported an even right after it happened, logically I would believe her words.

nano...The poster on here want to reduce this woman's credibility just because she's a "maid". So that makes it open season on maids, waitresses, secretaries and file clerks too?

You see the out of proportion male egos on steroids yet? A man with a rich wife can't possibly do wrong. A man who is IMF chieftain would NEVER think about sex...on and on and on ad nauseum.

I refuse to believe that a man with brains is also a man incapable of his testosterone raging. That's just too impossible to happen, right? See what a joke that is?

Any vice cop would tell you that women can be forced to do many things when a man has her by her throat, hair or is twisting her breasts or arms.

Tell me guys on here supporting this self indulgent creep, How many maids have you read about reporting a rape by a Foreign born VIP in a $3000 suite? It doesn't happen ...until it REALLY HAPPENS..There are certain aspects of this incident that ring TRUE...ever been on the elite floor of a luxury hotel? No sound and no people...those rooms are padded to keep NYC noise Out and the rarified air on those floors mean private very private..actually often the only people you see are the maids. I suspect a French hotel with a French VIP would normally be expected to keep this sort of thing quiet or at least Ole Dominque thought so. He didn't have to change planes because again it was Air France...he is expected to possibly the next president of France. He thought all things French would protect him. This isn't a plot or a fake cry of rape...this creep thought he could get away with raping a MAID because she is a MAID and his butt got caught...it is as simple as that.

Radio -

but it's hard to imagine someone forcing someone else to perform oral sex at the spur of the moment

and

an adult is less likely to be maneuvered into such a situation completely against their will.

Wow - are we reading the same MSNBC story - if you try to force someone (and I'm betting he is a lot bigger than she is) into oral sex, it IS a Crime.....for both sex acts the article clearly states that she struggled and managed to get away - that doesn't sound like she was "willing." Also, if you clean rooms as a maid, you do not assume you are going to be assaulted in a room that was supposed to be empty. This man is not just "someone" - he's the Chief of the IMF - he's arguably one of THE MOST IMPORTANT men in the world (career wise). His picks on a minority immigrant - I'm sure he thought she would never tell - good for her that she did and I hope he rots in on of America's crappier prisons! Put him in an orange jumpsuit already! I can't believe you are already trying the victim - shame on you!

This reads like a script to a so-so movie of the week.....ho hum. I wonder if he at least got dressed before heading for the airport.....usually high profile types have a bunch of entourage around to keep track of details and cellphones, so what gives with this guy running around and sprinting to airports without his crowd of personal assistants, schedulers, babysitters, etc.?

This will be interesting when we start to get the real picture, after the first commercial is over. So far it's just the teaser and opening credits.

For all those "she could have bitten off his penis" - I think she was trying to protect herself from an all out rape - all of you on the sidelines who say what she "should" have done need to stop - how many of you have been in her situation? In that situation, were you are surprised and attacked and he's ALREADY naked - he only has to grab her hair and mash her face onto him....that is a bad situation, I would be worried that biting wouldn't stop a crazed man and then he'd kill me for trying. By the way - I'm pretty sure she did not open her mouth period - but him trying to force her into oral sex (the way I described above) is a criminal sex crime - and he should rot and she should be a lesson to women that if you tell the authorities - you can get (I hope) some justice! She did exactly what she should have - fought him off the best she could, told on him, went to the hospital, etc... - in my book, her actions have been heroic!

This always happens when you schedule your room cleanings and visits from your hookers too close together.

I gotta feeling that this will be like the "blue dress" in slick willies case. This dude looks into the camera and tells us that he didn't have sex with "that woman" but the evidence will prove otherwise. Anyone who has to chase a hotel maid down a hall for sex has bigger problems than he thinks.

I suspect the maid was badly scared and hurt and ran to seek aid and was questioned by co-workers and the hotel staff. This seems to show this was legit. He left is cell phone and wallet (according to other press) She is a long-time employee of hotel, probably not a plant.

HE has assaulted another young lady and has a history of "losing his head" his words, in the past when he wrestled a young journalist to the ground in an attempt to do the same as it appears he did to the maid.

It is obvious the men responding here and it is disgusting. Are any of you fathers & sons and brothers? Do you really think of your women in this way?

thetruth: Who are you really, his wife? Why the mindless rush to his defense and the assumption this woman could not be telling the truth? They're already recovered DNA from the room --What will your excuse be when it's found to match? (let's see..."consensual sex"?)

he 'ran', (assuming he booked an earlier flight), because he might be accused wrongly in a country whose declared 'innocent until proven guilty' laws are a farce!!!!

he is in a system that he has to prove his innocence... a lot of folks here on this forum have already labeled him guilty, a creep, a perverty/deviant, etc.... and he and everyone knows that he is guilty until he pays for his moment in court....

it is not inconcievable to believe the maid was bought and paid for by his detractors... well before he checked into the hotel... she could have been playing with him the entire stay and let him know he was in trouble that AM and he bolted... or any other scenario... but in our country, he is guilty already.. .he is marched around in cuffs like he is a threat.... the law enforcement officers probably told him they are doing this or that to maintain thier own safety and security... 'let me search you for my safety'... YEA RIGHT.... they want to make sure he doesnt have anything sharp in his pocket.. no needles... right?

they want to hand cuff him cause he might fight and attack them and hurt them... or worst... run away... omg... i can see it now.. an old man running down the street looking for a cab to jump in or ssome random car that he hijacks to make his escape...

there is zero reason to cuff him and the majority of 'innocent until proven guilty CRIMINALS.... but it is done without any consideration... 'cept to paint the person guilty and start the process of breaking them down to 'fight' on thier terms...

Jessie...Don't men always act like "bad boys" after they have sex? roflmao. They don't even have to say a word. It's like there's a neon sign on their foreheads flashing "Guilty, guilty, guilty". That analogy "hit and run" didn't refer to car accidents.

Warning! Many of these post may be writer wannabes seeking info for a manual on how to be a pervert. Make them go to the effort to have Frenchie explain how it works.

WOW! The vindictiveness from my fellow females on here that collectively hold men in such low disregard.

There are two scenarios here:

The first is an innocent young woman, who was doing her job, for mostly minimum wage. She is the VICTIM! Hopefully, she will get a settlement , from the dirt bag; plus a gulity verdict, for his pathetic acts and misdeeds.

And the other scenarios is,"it's all about the money!"

Strauss-Convict has a lot of money. Enough money to concern is third wife if he goes to jail! She will not have anyone to buy her "bling." WIfe number three may need to get a job! Also, I do not understand why these "powerful" people, stay in a $3,000.00/ night hotel and fly first class, while the people they represent can not afford to play Putt-Putt golf!

I visited New York city a couple of years ago. Everything was expensive but it was the best four days vacation, I have ever had! New York never sleeps, as I observed people milling on the streets at 2:00 AM. I was having wine, with friends, at a Bistro, on the sidewalk. In Toledo everyone is in bed at 10:30! Believe me I watched every penny because, one can only afford, a trip like that, once in awhile.

If this Strauss guy is let out on bond, he has the resources to get out of town and he would do it too! It is all about the money for these types of people. He nned to work as laundry or kitchen helper, in jail.

I believe he deserves a fair trial but if he is found guilty, I want to see him do "hard time!" No tennis or golf for this cretin. Oh there I go again assuming he is guilty. But I will not be on his jury panel, darn it. (d-a-r-n) It looks like Dam!

As I said, I hope the maid will be able to afford a room at the Hotel Sofital when she gets done with this letch!

Jim

his wife, Anne Sinclair, is the one with the money in this marriage - for his third marriage Dominique Strauss-Kahn married up. Although coming from upper middle class, he never was really rich before his marriage with Anne Sinclair, who was born in a rich family, inherited a lot from her different relatives and is a multi-millionnaire (in Euros).

The German Newspaper - Der Spiegel (German Edition) is reporting that his bail will probably be several million dollars - however, I'm sure he will have to give up his passport. They are also reporting that a French reporter who dropped her rape case against him 9 years ago (because of family connections) is now going to renew her case - so he faces two charges of rape...Der Spiegel is reporting that DNA will clarify the case as scratches and DNA under fingernails will prove there was a struggle. - the English edition doesn't have this information but on the upper left of the magazine's front page press "nachrichten" for photos and video.

a socialist since the early 70s, who stays in $3000 hotel rooms, is infamous for living like a king, uses his position of power to rape the surfs, and runs one of the largest financial terror organizations on the planet, one that has most countries in perpetual debt slavery, except libya, iran, and hugo land. wonder why we are gunning for those 3 countries?

From the many posts here with inside information such as 'he was running away', 'he didn't check out', 'he left his phone behind' he must be guilty. However, I read the story several times and still don't see where any of this is mentioned except the found cell phone. I myself have left my cell phone behind on more than one occasion when I was trying to catch a flight or get to a meeting. This whole thing reeks of a set-up. His past transgressions work against him of course, but if the guy was naked and she got away, how did he dress so fast, grab a cab, and make it to the airport before her report got to the police. Let's hold up a minute.

He is a powerful person, leader of a large organization, a threat to a political figure known for dirty tricks and underhanded manoeuvrings. That makes him a target. It would not be beyond the realm of possibility for a woman to be paid a lot of money to make such an accusation to discredit him before he announces his candidacy. She of course later recants and goes into seclusion after the damage to his career has been done.

Too many people are ready to join a lynch mob when they hear the words 'rape', and 'powerful rich man'. This is not the whole story.

Assuming that he did do it (we still need to wait for the evidence) I am always surprised at the idiocy of these high profile men who think they can do whatever they want and get away with it.

I would guess that there is a LOT more of this kind of stuff going on that we DON'T hear about.

jumptoaconclusion: (Appropriate moniker) If you're an American, you're woefully ignorant of your own country's legal system. He does not have to "prove" he is innocent. Many of the reactions here are reactions to the assumption that he can't possibly be guilty because this is a maid we're talking about. Don't confuse that with how the legal system works.

Also thanks to Soffitel for teaching their employees to report incidents and NYPD having the courage to chase a foreign national on the testamony of a maid.

NYPD had enough credible info to initiate the seizure at JFK. Wonder if reversed, the French would be so fast to act..... Their newspapers say he is finished.

In France, public figures are usually shielded from view in such circumstances.

In America, one thing is for sure, no one (including the rich and powerful) is above the law.

That's one of the qualities that differentiate America from the rest of the world.

She's the one with the money in the marriage and she's backing him up instead of demanding the truth from him? Yikes. When will women with men who have a reputation actually look into that reputation and see if it's true or not?

I wonder if he has ever attended one of berlusconi's Bunga Bunga parties?

This has probably already been brought up, but wouldn't a $3000/night hotel have security cameras in the hallways? Their body language could paint part of the picture (whether it could be used as evidence or not I don't know). Did the maid run out of there looking panic-stricken with her uniform torn? (just giving examples here) Or did she calmly leave the room & shut the door behind her? Did he haul a$$ out of there, or did he calmly leave as well?

For $3K a night he probably expected hot and cold running maid service, what an arrogant pompous ass.

It's amazing he dressed, made it out the door all the way to JFK and boarded a flight, hotel management must have been slow to react.

"the great seducer,"

I guess he is not that great at it.

With the liberal onslaught of feminism over the last several decades, we can no longer distinguish between legitimate and false accusations of relatively inane sexual misconduct.

Any woman who is upset or angry with a man can accuse him of some sort of sexual impropriety or physical abuse and the man will spend a great deal of his time/resources clearing his name.

Perhaps if we restored the core values in this world these sort of things would eventually disappear as men and women would co-exist in their proper roles instead of the artificially enforced quagmire we have today.

How do you know he "ran"? I assume he was scheduled for the flight he was on. If he changed to an earlier flight, that would be more damning. LIkewise, saying "Looks like he left in a hurry." just because he left a cel phone behind also sounds like jumping to conclusions.

The maid entered the room around noon to make it up (checkout is normally noon). Then the alleged altercation took place (and he was allegedly nude at that time). She reported it, and by 12:28 there were authorities back up to his room and he was gone (leaving things behind). He didn't call about his cell phone until well after 3pm. It certainly seems like from the timeline he high-tailed it out of the hotel as fast as he could. He may have tried to change to an earlier flight. We just don't know. But the facts do seem to support the notion that he was in a hurry to leave the hotel and wasn't in danger of missing his flight.

Bruce-308647

Facts? What facts? From this article? Since when does a news STORY become fact? If one blindly jumps to conclusions then perhaps it could be assumed but certainly not "fact". That's why we have courts just so those with "lynch mob" mentalities can be held in check.

It's a mystery how you people manage to get through the day without seriously hurting yourselves.

@ TomTom:

"In America, one thing is for sure, no one (including the rich and powerful) is above the law.

That's one of the qualities that differentiate America from the rest of the world."

You actually believe those naive words you posted?

Money can buy freedom(or the best defense). Money can buy out of court settlements.

If you're have connections with the DA or judges on the bench, you can a get slap on the wrist for things that the average Joe would get a jail term for.

Our own court system is flawed here in the US. People with no money for decent defense teams get long jail terms, and the rich/famous get the top defense teams.

I won't judge either way whether this guy is guilty or not. I'm waiting to see what evidence is presented(by both sides).

Cerebrally Superior

Bruce-308647

Facts? What facts?

I think this is a setup to force IMF to bail out the US battered debt.

His wife... is an idiot. Or she doesn't care. If he cheats with you, he will cheat on you. If he assaults one, there are/will be more.

cerebriallysuperior (you may want to find another moniker): If you want to blame women for rape, and it sounds like you have some personal reasons of your own for that bit of absurdity, this probably isn't the best case for you to use. There's forensic evidence and he did his best to flee. This particular symbol of poor wronged men at the hands of those awful conniving females who just don't seem to know their station in life isn't looking so good for your case right now...But brighten up--I'm sure in your mysogeny you'll be able to come up with something to whine about.

AP-1414066

jumptoaconclusion: (Appropriate moniker) If you're an American, you're woefully ignorant of your own country's legal system. He does not have to "prove" he is innocent. Many of the reactions here are reactions to the assumption that he can't possibly be guilty because this is a maid we're talking about. Don't confuse that with how the legal system works.

ACtually, (first off, thanks for the nod on the moniker)... i am acutely aware of the legal system in my own country... and although it states the opposite, i.e. innocent until proven guilty', it couldnt be further from the truth... if it were true, the accused would be entitled to live as they are accustomed to while awaiting the trial... and all court costs and legal fees would be paid by the prosecution or the 'victim', until such time as it is PROVEN differently where/when the defendant/guilty party would have to pay back the costs...

many many times defendants are offered plea bargains, and the thought process is that it is easier/cheaper to take the plea for a lesser offense rather then burden the cost andhumiliation of trying to defend the larger claim...

the prosecutors are 'measured'/scored for their 'record'.. they can get a better record of 'convictions', if they offer a stupid plea deal for no penalty, knowing the defendant would be stupid to fight back, incur costs and risk a sentance and penalty that is 'greater thne nothing', while the PA/DA gets the 'win' on his record...

COPS should have to pay back wrongfully prosecuted people... period... they should treat them on a case by case basis for risk assesment.. who needs to be handcurrfed, and who needs to be handcuffed behind the back or in front, or who can be trusted to not escape and or attack... therre is no need to tackle an old man or old woman... or disabled man with a dozen cops... and there is no need to search a baby for weapons... (or for the safety of the officers)...

common sense and case by case basis judgments is lost here... no room for personal decisions... it's the system

Posted by: David-3477897

Strauss-Khan was about to run for French presidency and in France it is not uncommon in such a context that politics face unexpected and curious accusations. According to recent polls Strauss-Khan was running ahead of any other candidates including president Sarkozy. Many people wanted to shoot him down:

1) French gov and president Sarkozy. Strangely enough, the 2 first person to report Strauss-Khan's inculpation in France were people that participated to Sarkozy's 2007 campaign and this was 1h30 before any American media! i.e. they announced his inculpation even before he was actually arrested at JFK! Two weeks ago, Strauss-Khan told a famous French journal that some people were after him and that he felt they would try to dig out some dirt about him.

4) It may just be a coincidence but Strauss-Khan was staying at a French hotel in NY. Such an hotel can easily be infiltrated by French secret agents (sent by French gov?) or any other French organization that wanted him down. They may have offered money to the maid so that she has sex with Strauss-Khan and then fake a rape.

I'm not saying he's done nothing, but there are several things to know about French politics to fully understand what's going on. If he did try to rape this person then he deserves what's happening. But even if he did not, he won't be able to run for French presidency after that and he will probably lose the IMF direction. Consipracy or not?... Let's see!

By outward appearances and what has been reported in the media so far, it appears that this guy is guilty as sin. But that is often the way that set-ups done by professionals appear. For one, this guy was not only the leading candidate for the French Presidency, but he represented the Socialist Party in France too, which in my mind makes a conspiracy a possibility here.

If we will remember back to our own 1988 Presidential campaign, it has been proven that wealthy conservatives were behind setting-up Democrat Gary Hart with a young conservative socialite which was immediately broadcast far and wide as an affair, and promptly ended Hart's Presidential campaign when it appeared that he was leading too.

The IMF is known the world over for saddling countries with huge levels of debt that they can't afford to repay, while insisting on economic conditions that have thrown billions of the less-fortunate worldwide into virtual slavery or worse. I'm sure that the people of over 100 countries worldwide would love to get a crack at the head of the IMF, and not only that, but the IMF has lately been insisting that we make some draconian budget cuts here too, or we could face the loss of our Dollar as the world reserve trading currency, which would also effectively end our ability to continue to print extra money without serious inflation as a result. A quick study of what happened to the UK after the British Pound Sterling lost its reserve currency status might make for some interesting reading here, as we face similar consequences too.

I know the evidence reported in the media looks bad already, but I am also heavily suspicious when France was leaning Socialist that what has happened here is a conservative attempt to throw the French Socialist Party into disarray leading up to a Presidential election there, given what a Socialist win might do to the financial interests of wealthy capitalists. In my mind the given excuse about the maid entering to clean the suite is a bit suspicious, given this guy's political standing and the cost of the suite. Maids just don't enter unannounced into $3000/night suites held by major foreign Presidential candidates, even at check-out time, and I am a little surprised over the lack of security too.

It may yet turn out that this guy is guilty, though I am also skeptical of the effort so far put-in to try the case in the media even before he has had his day in court. Remember, innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt is the law of the land here. I just wanted to make everyone aware that there are other possibilities here too.

@Cerebrally superior writes, "With the liberal onslaught of feminism over the last several decades, we can no longer distinguish between legitimate and false accusations of relatively inane sexual misconduct." That sentence is a mess in so many ways it's hard to enumerate them all - so let's start with the use of "Inane" because it's the most hilarious - I wouldn't pick but with a name like Cerebrally Superior I couldn't help it. CS - did you mean innocuous? Or did you mean inane like making fart sounds on a woman's stomach with your lips?

Actually, in COURT you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, but the court of public opinion has no such constraints. If he is presumed innocent, then so too much she be presumed "innocent" (and not "guilty" of being a liar). So we are back where we started. He is accused of something by her, we are given whatever facts we are given, and we are free to discuss our opinions. Of course if we were in court, we would have to have the presumption of innocence. However, we are NOT in court.

jumptoconclusions: Yes, and the jails are filled with innocent rapists who thought they were coping to a guilty but she doesn't count plea? Get a grip..."The system" isn't perfect but it's hardly as you describe it--especially when entered in by someone of means. this isn't a man who is going to be coerced into a plea he doesn't agree with.

Jumpintoaconclusion the reason you will never see police able to use discretion in handcuffing some and not others is sadly because of civil suits. If they do not treat everyone the same then they get sued, for the most part by the guilty, as simple as that. The system unfortunately has to be the way it is because individuals try and take advantage. The guilty get off while the innocent, such as in slim circumstances plea deals for the win of the prosecutors, become victims. It is not the police fault in most circumstances, they have families and want to come home to them safely while having to deal with the criminal element.

Jumpintoaconclusion the reason you will never see police able to use discretion in handcuffing some and not others is sadly because of civil suits. If they do not treat everyone the same then they get sued, for the most part by the guilty, as simple as that. The system unfortunately has to be the way it is because individuals try and take advantage. The guilty get off while the innocent, such as in slim circumstances plea deals for the win of the prosecutors, become victims. It is not the police fault in most circumstances, they have families and want to come home to them safely while having to deal with the criminal element

I have no empathy for police who wantto go home to thier family and all that crap.. if they are that concerned get a desk job... paper cuts rarely impact family life....If they cant think for themselves and let little old ladies ride shotgun uncuffed if they truley believe them to be safe then screw them?

If they cant admit the truth abotu the reasons to search your pockets, and no, it isnt for thier safety, it is to find evidence, then screw them... they are liars and will do and manipulate whatever they have to to prove thier positions... pretty much like many here will argue and say whatever to support thier positons, cops do the same thing... they are human... and they are unable to seperatate thier personality from thier responsibility...

They are not heroes.. they are trained and compensated for standing up to bad guys and chasing them down when they misbehave.. they are not trained to handle innocent people.. period... and our laws indicate that we are innocent until proven guilty...

they arrest whomever is accused when it comes to 'domestic violence' because of the 50% populace of 'advocates' who 'support each other'... right or wrong...

they will never go after another cop based upon an 'outsiders' claim, unless sufficeint evidence and witnesses.... they will 'interpret laws' thier way whenever possible...

It is unfortunate that i have a general feeling about all cops as i know there must be asome good ones out there.. and i am sure the majority entered into the role for very positive reasons, but the reality is they are trained to DEMAND respect for a reason,, because they can not command it on thier own...

@Radiopicture #1.3 Maybe she was timid and just automatically did what anyone suggests, but it's hard to imagine someone forcing someone else to perform oral sex at the spur of the moment. I realize sexual predators can coerce others into such acts, but I don't think it can be done in the time frame we're talking about here.

You should feel thankful that you've never been raped. Rape is not an act of sex. It is not a loving embrace where two partners share each other. Rape is an act of violence. It is a show of force and domination over another human being. You need to put your thinking cap on before you spout.

I'm not an American but at the this moment I'm so proud of the American justice system for denying this serial rapist bail (he has a long past of sexual assaults), I'm so tired of watching powerful people getting away with their crimes. I wish that after conviction they won't send him to a minimum security prison but to a maximum security prison where a big dude makes him his girlfriend for life, so he will understand what he was doing to his victims. Just a wish.

The latest claim is that this guy had already checked-out of his hotel and was having lunch with a daughter at a restaurant in NYC at the same time that the alleged incident occurred. I am sure that plenty of security cameras will verify this claim if it is true. Anyone else ever lose a cell phone? I left mine once in a Bell Cab that I rode in from Ontario Airport, and 3 hours later the driver even brought it back to me!!! How many of us here have ever left their cell phone charge cord in a hotel room? I have!!! Perhaps we ought to wait for the security camera tapes before rushing to judgment?

I wonder just who this guy ticked off to be accussed like this, then suspiciously be denied bail.

Suspiciously denied bail?

Since when is it suspicious to deny bail to someone who is a serious flight risk with zero chance of extradition if he jumps bail?

I agree with brokencitizen, rape is a violent act- not a victims choice, regardless of age. The woman was taken to the ER with injuries and her story was believed by enough people to get the guy off of the plane. The article states that the prosecuting attorney suggests forensic evidence and of course the defense attorney says that forensic evidence will prove his innocence.

There is certainly enough evidence here to arrest, detain and deny bail. For once, I'm very proud of the way that our justice system worked.

I just heard a MSNBC reporter states the hotel has cameras in the halls. Someone posted this is a "set up" to make Frank help bail out the United States, financially. I don't understand why people cannot believe, a guy like Strauss would not rape an innocent woman! Just because he is rich and educated, does not eliminate him as a rapist! I am willing to bet, their are a lot more rapes by the rich, wealthy and powerful, but they have been able to keep the misdeeds quite. Why does everyone assume, rapist are dirty, uneducated and street dwellers? Remember Jim Bakker, the "Reverend." Roman Polanski, the well heeled, director of Rosemary's Baby,is only two examples of people who believe they, are above the law. There are not too many people, who actually believe, OJ Simpsom did not kill his wife.

Not suspicious to deny a rich flight risk bail. This man has the money and resources to charter a plane or helicopter out of the US without even having to go through a normal airport. And he would be gone, too. He's accused of a violent felony. I am hoping he is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, and if found guilty, locked up for a long long time. A person who would assault a hotel maid as he is accused of is about a quarter notch above a child molester, IMO.

About his wife: in Europe, it's common for people to enjoy marriages of "convenience". They're short of being "arranged". Yes, even in today's world.

The man is a pig and based on the fact that there is evidence, hopefully, he will get the maximum possible from the courts. Kudos to the IMF for replacing him, pronto, with a temp. This man has a history and that's not good. He's mentally ill. Stop the viagra, somebody!

Yes, these people do think they are above the law. I've written before, the laws are written for the benefit of the wealthy. Pay attention, kids.

However, this woman was in her 30's and not a child or teenage girl.

It's not allowed even consentually when either party is under age, but this person was in her 30's.

Granted that 30 is not a girl. However, at what age does it become acceptable to rape a woman? Obviously you believe it to be between teens and "in her 30's".

Amen. A hotel maid trying to do her job should not ever encounter something like this, regardless of her age. Why is it that so many rich and powerful men seem to not be able to keep it in their pants?! It just seems to be the downfall of so many of them.

Purnell Meagre Jr.

FYI son..."inane" = lacking significance. I'm that even someone like you can confirm that information.

Now try at least to post something relevant to the story or the discussion. Thank you.

AP-1414066

cerebriallysuperior (you may want to find another moniker): If you want to blame women for rape, and it sounds like you have some personal reasons of your own for that bit of absurdity, this probably isn't the best case for you to use. There's forensic evidence and he did his best to flee. This particular symbol of poor wronged men at the hands of those awful conniving females who just don't seem to know their station in life isn't looking so good for your case right now...But brighten up--I'm sure in your mysogeny you'll be able to come up with something to whine about.

Rape is a brutal evil crime that should be punished to the fullest extent of the law. I have never condoned nor have I insinuated that women, or any other victim of a terrible crime, it so be "blamed" for their misfortune. There are times however where people put themselves in situations which could be avoided. That being said, a chamber maid doing her job is NOT one of those situations. Now I strongly suggest that you and others in here who feel a strong need to project your personal feelings through others seek the help you so desperately require.

Bruce-308647

I am afraid you are very naive and lacking worldly appreciation.

American Lobo

You actually believe those naive words you posted? Money can buy freedom(or the best defense). Money can buy out of court settlements.

Yes Am-Lo, I actually believe those naive words I posted in seed #1.39. America might not be a perfect place, but when Presidents do wrong, they are kicked out of office like Richard Nixon. When athletes do wrong, they go to jail like Michael Vick and Plaxico Burress. When entertainers do wrong, they go to jail like Martha Stewart, Paris Hilton, Wesley Snipes, etc., regardless of how much money they have.

I wish I could believe, too, TomTom.... But I also see examples to the contrary.... Bill Clinton stayed in office after lying under oath. Kobe and Big Ben are still playing ball, and "Lindsay" (minus the "Lohan" now, since her father has disgraced the name!) is still out on the streets. Sometimes the rich and famous end up in jail, but more often than not, their money finds a way to get the charges dropped or get them a slap on the collective wrist.

There is one thing everyone is forgetting, the maid who is most likely paid minimum wage but was attacked by this person, who believed he is entitled! She has rights too! I refuse to insult and ridicule her, because it seems easier for the general; public to blame the victim. She is a victim! She did nothing wrong and when I hear people say, she could have fought him off, I wonder how well they would do, if someone took you by surprise and grabbed you?

@Cerebrally Superior - the inability to admit error is not a sign of superiority - unless you consider George Bush Einstein. BTW - re-read your response to my post - it's still screwed up. Thank you for your buffoonery, my Cerebrally Superior friend.

Amen. A hotel maid trying to do her job should not ever encounter something like this, regardless of her age. Why is it that so many rich and powerful men seem to not be able to keep it in their pants?! It just seems to be the downfall of so many of them.

I would add:

AMEN: A rich and powerful person, trying to his or her job, should not encounter something like this, regardless of thier age. why is it so many people who dont have the money think they can manipulate the system to coerce anyone they want, to leverage money or fame out of them by using the system/tools at thier disposal...

hehehehe

bottom line you and others here have already sentanced this guy for actions that he may or may not have comitted...

give it up.. we all know you arent good jurrist...

Purnell Meagre Jr.

It is I who should thank you for confirming my moniker is fitting among people like you.

Even a child can goggle...I am sure someone in your household can show you how. Once you discover this tool you will be able to respond in a relevant way.

Good luck.

TomTom:

I'll give you a prime example. OJ Simpson. Money buys the best legal teams(which increase the chance of a not guilty verdict or light sentence/plea bargain).

Famous people get house arrest or country club honor ranch "prison" sentences.

House arrest is available, only if you have the money to pay the monitoring service and fees. No money, and you will serve your term in jail.

So yes, money buys people lighter sentences and defense teams that give them better odds at beating the system.

Jailing people for not paying their taxes, is unethical, IMO. It's better to fine them, and/or forcefully confiscate their $$/property in reparation.

@Cerebral - what's goggling? You really are hilarious. BTW Stilted prose makes a person look like a pretender - not a genius.

Well folks, looks like I was spot on in my comments regarding this case. Another woman trying to cash in by using her body.

This story is as old as time itself. Women lack imagination.

Who's kidding who here? Rich men have entitlement attitudes on steroids. that's why most of them are so kinky. Of course, they can afford to pay for silence. Until some woman blows the whistle on Mr. Got Rocks and his tad freaky sexual proclivities.

If they want, their wealth entitles them to have it. After all, she's only a lowly maid and he's king of the financial world.

guilty to proven innocent... must be nice in your system... it certainly isnt the one i thought i lived in....

if he is guilty, i hope he rots.. if he is innocent, i hope he takes your tax money and spends it on whores.... but we know 'victims' of wrongful prosecution are never recompensated....

jumpintoconclusion...Wrong. There's a guy in NJ who bought a huge farm after winning a recompensation case for lack of due process. In the US, lawyers love that one...very little in the way of paperwork for them and lots of cash.

If found guilty, and I hope that influence doesn't magically make things go away a la Kobe Bryant, I trust that he learns all about non-consensual sex in prison.

Once he's out of our prison system we will turn him over to the French Prison system since he is facing another rape charge in France (this makes his third) - and that woman is well known - the IMF has already named an interim leader - they obviously don't think he'll be back on a plane to Europe any time soon - let's face it, I'm sure he get's plenty of vacation time (and no interim Chief is named) - even they must think he's guilty.

I do not understand some of the posts, such as "Why is he in handcuffs?" ...Reason number 1 - he is being ARRESTED, just because he is rich doesn't mean he will eat fois gras in Rikers.... I think he is getting plenty of "nice" treatment. He was transferred to court today - in his own clothes, he's in a "special" wing. He's getting plenty of respect but if you are arrested, expect handcuffs - duh!

I was not there.-If the woman is lying she could ruin that mans whole life---If he is lying he is a rotten dirt bag . Who ever is lying needs to spend time in jail-- my thoughts

I agree with you Rhonda - but for the males out there (and females)...is the yearly appointment with your ObGyn the highlight your year/month/day. What if you went to work, were attacked, had to have a gynecological exam by a stranger - who would have to go over every inch of your body for evidence (you are naked of course) and let's say there is a bruise/scratch - something - near your private parts, now in comes the cameraman to document it. Doesn't sound like a fun prospect to me. I doubt she is lying considering he is known for this type of behavior - he just usually gets away with it because he is a powerful man - the other women who are accusing him now, knew he was head of the IMF. If I saw him on the street, I wouldn't know who he was, if I cleaned his room, I would really only know that he or his company was rich - I guess the maid decided that whomever he was, he was not going to get away with treating her like garbage.

If she is lying - she will not ruin his life he makes over $500,000 a year and if dismissed from his job will receive yearly compensation of 60% of his current salary, how tragic.

Thank you Rhonda. Your 2 line comment sums it all up.

@Rhonda,

Just how would you determine that an alleged victim is lying? What would be the standard for sending her to jail? How do you think that would impact other victims of a severely underreported crime? People who are already being put on trial by our system.

All that is needed is to look at some of the comments to see why many vicitims do not report, your suggestion would make it worse.

yes, some 'victims ' of wrongful prosecution are re compensated, but rarely.. as you stated.. lack of due process will be a good one to collect on, but if this guy is exhonerated, i doubt it will be a lack of due process.. as he is getting one.. .he is getting to spend the week(at least), in jail while waiting for due process... time for testing and interviews and all that...and if tried and found not guilty, i am sure he will have been offered due process... but the PA / DA will just have failed... and the cause, maybe the woman, (alledged victim). how could he sue her for her erroneous testimony, assuming it is wrong). what will he get? how do you compensate someone who is used to $3k a night accomidations for havign to spend time in a jail cell with an exposed toilet that probably dont work?

how do you compensate him if he loses the upcoming election? or his job???

guilty till proven innocent..

I wonder if Rikers has a $3k suite he can occupy until his court date?

@Rhonda,

Just how would you determine that an alleged victim is lying? What would be the standard for sending her to jail? How do you think that would impact other victims of a severely underreported crime? People who are already being put on trial by our system.

All that is needed is to look at some of the comments to see why many vicitims do not report, your suggestion would make it worse.

yes, i see that the 'problem' there, but the reality is that without any sense of justice it is up to the alleged victim to decide who she wants to punish, right or wrong... and unfortunately for your 'point', in this 'system', as it is stated, the defendant is INNOCENT until PROVEN guilty... i guess if it is a he said she said type of thing, then you put the two of them in front of a bunch of folks and have them tell us theier story and if there is a preponderance of belief one way or the other, then 'vote' for who you think is telling the truth... but i am guessing that will leave the courts open to a lot of he said she said type of crimes...

he took my watch, no i didnt... he stole money, no i didnt, he did drugs, no i didnt.

and we can move foreward? from there?

@jump,

So how do you think that will impact the reporting of the crime of rape? If a victim who is already disincented from reporting potentially faces jail time if she is not believed.

not sure really, probably reduce the number or claims made, and worst might make some perps feel like they can get away with it... not good either way... seriously though. if i were 'weak' I would limit my activities and location to places more 'safe'... and for those that have to be in 'unsafe' areas and have an increased risk, to compensate them better ..... (i.e. move to a isolated land, and for those that choose to stay, pay them better)????

again, not sure what or how to avoid a mass exodus of 'weaker' individuals'. we live in a wierd unsafe time and i fear it will get worst... we cant afford more police nor do we want them everywhere... but we cant trust each other to behave... it sucks out loud...

but short of changing the laws and creating a 'police state', we can not have a he said she said legal system... without understanding that there will be more 'wrongful' convictions then we already have...

right...like being careful before you take a dangerous job like hotel maid?? She isn't looking so "weak" as you or the alleged perpetrator would suppose now is she?

Jump, the maid thought she was safe. They are not supposed to enter rooms that are occupied. They are supposed to knock and wait for an answer before entering the room to make it up. Hotels have checkouts usually by 12 noon. The maids, even at less luxurious hotels, are told the day that a room occupant is leaving and also if they were granted a late checkout. They bypass those rooms and go back later. This guy has a history of attacking women. This woman is strong, not weak, as the others were because she reported him.

Kudos to the judge for not granting him bail even though he is a "mover and shaker".

This situation starts as a he said/she said, but the police are gathering evidence to prove the case one way or the other. It is the way things are done. I know I will not get through to you because no one else has, but ...

yea, you wont get thru to me, sorry... so, while the police are putting it together, lets run the guy thru the wringer.... march him around as if he is going to run away and hijack a cab and get out of the country...

yup.. not getting thru... sorry

@jump,

So the old, she is at least partially responsible for being someplace she should not be line. How about the perceived male weakness of not being able to supress their "urges" if there is an available female?

Rape is not about some guy hot to trot, it is about mysogony and wanting to cause harm. As long as we give room for this to occur by putting vicitms on trial in our attitudes and social norms it will continue.

This sounds like a set up but this is what happens in our country where we base so much on capitalism!!!
She is looking to capitalized and this is a game that they play in the big city!!!!

How can you be forced to give oral sex and then immediately call the police????

It just don't sound right and it sounds like it is a set up to distort the French elections.

There's a lot of fools but, only few pay attention!!!!!!

Innocent until proven guilty that is my way of thinking and the thinking of the justice system.
This is why our justice system should not play into this.

@kelley, i didnt say or mean to imply that she asked for or otherwise invited any aggression...not even partially.. maybe you got me mixed up with someone else?

I merely suggest the guy is entitiled to be innocent until proven guilty and the majority here and probably on any given jury pool already has hung this guy...

If found guilty, and I hope that influence doesn't magically make things go away a la Kobe Bryant

If the victim agrees to drop charges for a large financial settlement, that means she is satisfied with that punishment. What's the motivation behind your hopes?

a jail cell with an exposed toilet that probably dont work?

Get serious. Do you honestly think that backed up toilets would pass the state health board exams?

If the victim agrees to drop charges for a large financial settlement, that means she is satisfied with that punishment. What's the motivation behind your hopes?

The problem with this arrangement is that while the "victim" may be satisfied with the "punishment" (i.e. the money), it leaves the perpetrator free to commit another act on another woman, and perhaps with even a greater sense of entitlement for having gotten away with it. Men who commit sexual crimes rarely commit just one because it's more an addiction than a rational act. Society is not served well when rich sexual predators are allowed to buy their way out of their predicaments. It only enables them to create more victims.

Get serious. Do you honestly think that backed up toilets would pass the state health board exams?

umm, no, they would never pass the health board inspection.. but what does that have to do with it... and for the record, i have personally seen examples of my comments in person... and no, i didnt deserve to be there as was vindicated by final disposition of dismissl with predjudice...

we all know the law enforcement is under funded.. so do you think they will take what little money they have and use it for fixing toilets and keeping the perpetrors happy and or clean or safe???

Sounds like winemaster2 has had a bit too much. She could have bitten off his penis? She was forced into a bathroom, and -- just a guess -- but I bet she was frightened. As far as the room being empty...if she knocked and received no reply, it would be an easy stretch to believe the room was empty. Sounds like the good ol' boys blaming the victim defense. I'm sure the evidence will tell the real story.

Uh...well maybe it's time for you to lay off the wine, try and sober up. It's almost dawn. Take a cold shower and try to extract your head from your ass!

Sorry, just realized you post was just a joke. Not very funny but an attempt at sarcasm.

What kind of a ridiculous argument is that? You have to be a child to be scared of a man that overpowers you? It couldn't possibly be because, what, she's really an international spy??

No one has said her story is impossible, but some of what I heard was implausible. Either person could be telling the truth, and they could both be lying in some way. I'm sure the police would tell you that these things are seldom clear-cut.

bankers and politicians...gotta love 'em...or else!!!

winemaster...Thank you for proving that there are men who will never take accountability for what they do...They look around for the first woman to blame...after all, she IS ALWAYS to blame isn't she?

Little boys who never grow up learn they never have to be responsible human beings...just little boys forever. Blaming a woman all the time is akin to never being weaned. Mommy was always there with din din and so every woman has to take blame for Mommy forgetting to wean her little Lord Fauntleroy.

You all are saying the same garbage many in Idaho did about our Congressman. He just couldn't have been doing those things in a Minn. airport bathroom. It was a setup by other politicans. Why? because of his position or he was not that stupid. Or his Church members didn't do that kind of thing. Ever see a Swingers AD magazine? The couples brag about the high positions they hold, and they really do. And they start off with"Happy married couple". You folks don't realize how it works. There boredom with not having to spend the mental time with the everyday life things, most do, leads in positive or negive avenues to follow. Human nature will say some will go both ways. The likley hood of this behavior dosn't get less with going up the ladder of life. It increases. There problem is when there big head takes them out of there socio-economic group to a lower one. It's a high for them. Another way to exert there self feeling of power. Then have the backing of the foolish, as some of you, the encourage them even more.

Wow you really hate men, don't you? Why don't you stop talking to them. Right now.

Mike998....Can't stand the truth? I guess having to admit that some men are totally incapable of responsibility isn't one of your favorites.

This must be why some men never really grow up. There are plenty of totally responsible men out there. Unfortunately, the bad apples make the rest appear second rate.

winemaster2...If he knocked her to the floor and was on top of her? Get real. That's the usual way it's done for sexual assault. Get that consentual vision out of your head. When women are violated, it just ain't that pretty.

Don't you remember "The Man with the Golden Gun"? You didn't think that was a firearm did you? That's just how these fat cat's view there tool. All those beneath them are to fall and worship it because of who it is attached to. If you don't understand ask Bill Clinton when he is in town. He can explain it to you, even if he couldn't about how his semen got on that blue dress.

Why would every man have to take responsibility of jacklegs. Each is responsible for each actions. Or should we assume that every woman is Paris Hilton or of similar measure. This guy if guilty should be cast down with the sodomites and never classed with a real man.

ewent - all good posts and you are correct. Where are the men who can understand the fear a woman who works in the lowest position cleaning a $3000/night room for the man staying there? How about losing her job if he complains?

Jessie...Male intimidation is another of the tools in their toolbox. Rich men always assume that a maid is beneath them and therefore it's open season. They know that a woman who works as a maid, secretary or waitress is automatic prey.

I've lived long enough to spot these predators and their penchant for controlling women. That's really what sexual assault is...an attempt to control. What I'd love to know is how much control this creep has over wifie dearest. People sometimes marry for the stupidest reason: prestige and status. That's usually the first step to infidelity.

This French guy sounds like a pucken fig.

ewent - On behalf of the male sub-species with attitudes similar to the ones displayed in this forum, I can only apologize and assure you that we are not all like that. There are indeed men out there that have respect for women and would never dream of forcing themselves upon them.

Let it be known that if I ever work as a waitress or a secretary again, if someone decides that I'm automatic prey, they're going to be dead wrong. I'd do the same thing this girl did-I'd go right to the police and to the hospital. After making sure I kick the man in the right spot. There's absolutely nothing wrong with standing up for yourselves, ladies. So what if the man is in power? At least tell the police what happened, get it on the record, make yourselves heard. working a position deemed lower doesn't mean you should be treated as such and have to take it.

Right: but read the comments here and you'll see why many women don't report it.

After making sure I kick the man in the right spot.

exactly my point... i am hoping there is some evidence of her 'resistance' but so far not one hint of her fighting back... just her pleasuring him and not leaving a mark... i would have left an indellable tooth mark, and maybe got my head beat in, but the guy will not perform oral again with someone forcefully without remembering the 'last time'...

and from a hetro point of view if a guy were to 'rape me'. he would have to kill me...not threaten...he will have sex with me when i am unconscious or dead... and trust me, i am not brave or braun... I am UNWILLING.. thats all

You actually write with a french accent?? These guy?

Bluelake...Yes...Isn't that adorable? I've always loved the sound of a French accent.

Either way, his career is over. This isn't the first sexual assault he's been accused of, but it may be the final one he's convicted of.

ewent-Oui, oui mon ami!

Bluelake...See? sounds tres elegante.

I think ewent is just jealous that she wan't in that hotel room.:-) Maybe not, if she goes the other way. Her scribblings on every subject are prefaced by the fact, she doesn't like men.

Maybe she doesn't like men who think it impossible that a wealthy man actually raped a woman?

AP, no, she just hates all men, haven't you read her posts here on newsvine?

His position is he checked out of the hotel, before the maid entered estimated now to be about 1:00 PM, and had lunch with his daughter. For starters:

1. What is the time stamp on the bill he paid and checked out? Does the check-out procedure immediately invalidate the key card--and show if the door to that room was closed and not propped open, in which cases he could have re-entered?

He was in the suite. Does it require a special key to get to that floor? Is there a computer record of time of use of that key? Is there a camera for that floor showing time?

2. Where was the lunch, and the receipt? Did he lug his bags near or far; was the restaurant in or very near the hotel?

3. Does the daughter live in New York City? If not, what brought her there--solely to have lunch with her father?

If the daughter drove, where did she park (receipt, possibly EZ-pass). If she took a taxi, the driver's log (or credit card) would show the time, and place for pick-up and arrival. Or did she walk?

4. The limo driver told another customer he took Dom earlier in the day, and Dom was very shook up. Where did the limo driver pick up Dom--the hotel? If true, why was he shook up after lunch with his daughter?

5. Do the housekeeping procedures direct the staff to a room which has already been vacated. Or does a maid go down the hall and simply knock to see if anyone is there, and then prepare a room if there is no answer?

6. Why did he come to New York?

Two recent developments:

1. His position is there was no "forcible encounter". How does that fit with the lunch?

2. It seems the maid reported it immediately and the supervisor immediately called 911. That could verify an approximate time of the maid's claim and alleged incident.

djodo..You don't get it. This guy is THE No. 1 at IMF. He knows he'll beat this charge. Slimeballs always do. And, there's more at stake with him going to jail...he's the reason Ireland and Greece were able to get bail outs from the IMF. If someone takes his place, they may not be as "generous" with the bailouts...all of which means this slimeball will get away with it and she'll be dirt in the public eye. This guy has enough money to create the right "spin". And he will.

Not so sure. The French are not beloved in this country by the masses. Remember how Bush bash them and many in this country joined up. So I think he might have a tougher run on this then he thinks...there is no reason this country had to coddle him and we all know the reputation the police, law enforcement have handling rape. The woman gets to be the victim twice...I think American Women's groups will jump on this to help create a chorus of , Oh No you din't ...if it looks like government, law enforcement is letting this guy off....send his smug butt to jail.

anghiari...We both know that whenever a man is in trouble, they'll stick to each other like glue when it's a woman accusing them of anything. It's that evolutionary Old Boys Network at play.

I realize there are scheming women out there but men ask for the trouble they get because they continue to perpetuate the myth that sexually they have "no control" over themselves. So, if you think about what that means, it says to women..."See? It's like this. I have a brain but my love gun thinks for me."

There may be women who allow men to think with their zippers. I'm just not one of them. I know many men who do not bristle at the word, "NO!" and I know just as many who hear that word from a woman and think it means "YES!". When they hear No and assume it means yes, the woman has no choice to be realize that his zipper is doing his thinking.

ewent...............I think plenty of men are disgusted with this jerk, so don't lump us all together.

USA1967...No, of course, I won't. I know plenty of truly honorable men who know what the word "honor" means. These are the most priceless American guys we have. They are all worth their weight in gold.

ewent, you are so right! While I would prefer not to change the topic, I have to respond to your post #6.3. That is why women have to wear burkas in many Arab lands. The men cannot control themselves, so the women have to cover up. If they are not covered head to toe and get attacked, it is their fault, not the man's.

In France, they have a different attitude towards sex then we do in the states. It can be a bit warped. Many years ago, when I was in high school, one of my female classmates went to Italy and France with her parents. In Italy, they whistled at her when with her parents and only tried to pinch her if she was by herself. In France, the men came right up to her as she was walking between her parents and tried to pinch her bottom.

You mean: "I hope they French Fry" the bastard

ritamco...SHE snuck in? Have you never stayed in a hotel of any kind?? ( you really need a lesson in how a man can overpower a power and scare her into this? You really are very, very sheltered.)

how can a "maid" come ALONE into a VIP suite, in a luxury hotel

ritamco - you obviously have never stayed in a hotel or motel. Hotels do not send maids to rooms in pairs. Maids enter hotels rooms all the time to clean, deliver extra linens, turn down the covers, etc. In most cases, the maid enters within seconds of knocking on a door unless the guest responds immediately to the knock.

Stop blaming the victim.

ritamco...Get real. Maids do not always know when a room is occupied. They have regular cleaning schedules they are bound by their employers to follow. How do you know HE knew when she was coming in to clean? Most guys staying in hotels know that by 10 AM, the room is cleaned.

What? HE couldn't post a "DND" sign on his door? Nice that you want to lob it all on her. I guess in your world men never rape, assault or sexually harrass women?

You must live under a rock. I've had maids come in my room hundreds of times, unannounced, when I was past checkout time in the room. Not at all unusual. What does the price of the room or hotel have to do with it? Nothing. Many don't hire help, full time, to screw them out of benefits. Wal-Mart isn't the only business to do this. Most do now.The maid in the top class today may be in the local mid class tomorrow. It's called survival. I'd take there worth as a human being 1000 times over above many of you posts.

Are you completely nuts. On elite floors with $3000 suites, often the only people you see on those floors are the maids...Maids show up based on the rooms they are assigned and at the times they are assigned. I suspect this guy stayed past his check out time because he was a big shot and didn't even consider that he might need to let the desk know. Men of his ilk cannot be bother with such mundane things as calling down to the desk. I have never been in a room where the maid has not knocked or open the door slightly and said is anyone here...if the guy was in the shower or bathroom with water running he may not have heard her...but it does not matter how she got in the room...he does not get a FREE RAPE as a prize for finding the maid in his room...its this type hyperbole that makes you know the thing most men hold in their hands is what they use for a brain.

... ...if the guy was in the shower or bathroom with water running he may not have heard her....

and what would be her excuse to NOT HEAR the water running??? or to check to see if this tenant checked out???

i dont mind asking for reasons or excuses or alibis from him but her actions needs some 'splainin'

Yeah, how DARE a lowly maid enter his room after check out time. And how DARE she complain when he decided that her presence meant he was entitled to a quickie before he boarded his flight?

All the little people should cringe before his stature, right?

jumpintoaconclusion...excuses, excuses, excuses.

jumptoconclusions: you really need to get out of the house once in a while. You clearly have never been in a hotel if you expect the maid to go 'check' besides a quick knock at the door to see if there's someone in the room.

i have been out of the house quite a bit... and usually, the hotels give the 'maids'/housekeeping personnel a list of rooms that have already checked out and after those rooms they go to the rooms that 'were supposed / scheduled to be checkout'

excuse the hell out of me for assuming a four star hotel has some type of system for this that just allows housekeeping on thier own to walk down the hall in order of the room doors and open them and walk in, and not hear the water running...

again, my point is, INNOCENT until proven guilty... and claim by one person against another is not proof... and if it is, why bother with the hearings.. just cut the guys balls off now... and send him on his way...

No they do not work off a list of who has checked out in any hotel I've been in, including the Sofatel. They just start their rounds unless there's instructions not to bother the guest. Of course the case against him has to be proven, but to dismiss the strength of that case for the reasons you cite, or for the 'stature' of the accused and lack of it by the accuser, shows the absurdity of your argument. The judge has already refused bail because common sense says he tried to flee on the first available flight (since it wasn't the one he'd booked) and forensic evidence at the scene will be processed quickly. Sometimes, a cigar is just a cigar....not an international conspiracy.

i have never cited STATURE or position as an issue... i merely state innocent until proven guilty.. so far it is her word against his...Last time i checked.. the DNA evidence that most are 'waiting for' is not evidence of wrong doing... it only evidence of a 'climax'.. it doesnt confirm or refute consensual or not...

is there other evidence? if so, most here dont care to hear it they are convinced, due to 'stature' that he is guilty...

If he is a 'flight risk', then assign a few guards to watch him.. and if he is found guilty, charge him for thier time....period... Right now, the case is awaiting confirmation of the DNA evidence... which mayby his, and for the sake of discussion, i will concede it is his.. but again, that dont prove it was forced or assualt... is there more evidence that he will be imprisoned for until they 'research' that too? can he or others be imprisoned indefinately while 'researching ' to see if there is or isnt a case?

jumpintoaconclusion,

I've been following this thread and I'd have to say you are making some very valid points ,,,,,I don't dispute that if he committed these acts he' accused of he should be held accountable .

Many posting on this thread already have this guy convicted guilty .

The proof of guilt has not yet been confirmed. I'm interested to see where this goes.

Since she obviously quickly reported the crime to police, I'm guessing that the DNA evidence in the hotel isn't the only DNA evidence now being investigated. He'd have to argue that between the time of the last room cleaning and when that DNA was found, it was purely coincidental that a claim of sex assault was filed--or he'll have to claim it was consensual despite any other DNA evidence they find. Either one stretches the bounds of reason and would more likely be handled in a plea deal. He's a flight risk and so will stay right in prison until the judge says otherwise.

i really hope this isnt true, poor man.. (if its not true)

jumpintoaconclusion...He is anything but poor. Save your sympathy for someone who deserves it. I'm sure you think this maid had nothing better to do than get up, get dressed for a maid's job and then welcome Mr. ZipperBrain's sexual advances.

poor not in monetary terms but interms oh having to endure this process of guilty till proven innocent... while proclaiming the exact opposite... I feel for all 'defendants' that are treated differently then they are accustomed to until such time as there is a court convitions.

If law enforcement has enough evidence and they believe so strongly they should either put the 'defendant' up in digs as they are accustomed to, until such time as proven differently or set aside financial or other compensation for the mistake that maybe made...

that is a system of equitable fairness...

and conversely, in the event the defendant is guilty the punishment should be to pay back the money spend on prosectuing them and or putting them up...etc...kinda like court costs, etc..

jumpingtoaconclusion: this man has significant resources. Our legal system is not perfect, but with this guys level of resources you can be assured he will receive, at a minimum, a "fair" trial. I'm not overly concerned that he will be 'victimized'.

if he spent one night in jail with a toilet that is overflowing and has to eat microwaved burritos then he is not being treated 'fairly' (assuming he is wrongfully victimized)

If the prosecution is sure and or if the 'victim' is sure, then let him stay in the hotel, and let them pay the bill while awaiting this mysterious physcial evidence that supposed to show/indicate that it was not consensual...

basically bet... is he innocent or guilty and how much are you willing to bet on the outcome??? your life ? a million bucks???? ten billion bucks???? how sure are you or rather is the DA/Victim???

He was deemed a flight risk quite reasonably. That's why he is in prison awaiting due process. That's how this system works...even if you have to spend the first night of your life you ever have with an overflowing toilet. There is no parallel justice system for those with means.

(LOL: now you're down to arguing it may have been "consensual"? )

jumping:

I very much understand your concerns (and I enjoy a stimulating discussion). I feel, on a personal level, that we sacrifice some level of personal freedoms to live in a relatively stable and lawful society. If "we" aka government treated every person who is accused of a crime to a nice hotel etc. we would have to spend a lot more money on the system. If the alleged victim needs to pay for these costs if the prosecuted is acquitted then we would heavily disincentives reporting of crimes.

Currently, there needs to be negligence on the government's part, or fraud by the alleged victim to constitute restitution. Is it perfect? Not by a long shot. And I'm sure it would be devastating to be wrongfully accused of a crime (see Duke lacrosse incident). However, without spending a whole hell of a lot more money on our penal system, I don't think the other options are any better. I'm open to suggestions though.

Deny bail, or at least confiscate his passport and issue an ankle bracelet which can restrict him to a few blocks in Manhattan. If this is an elaborate plot the seams will show through soon enough. If, as is much more likely, he is just another very wealthy slimeball who believes in his entitlements, I hope that he gets treated no differently than any other Joe-Six-Pack who is callous and selfish enough to assault women.

If the alleged victim needs to pay for these costs if the prosecuted is acquitted then we would heavily disincentives reporting of crimes.

why? if the puke is guilty and you know he harmed you why would you hesitate in reporting it? if i asked you who your mother was and asked you to bet money, how much would be TOO much before you were unsure? I can understand the 'father' question, but most folks know thier mothers, (and apologies to those that dont, i dont mean any disrespct, it was just the first analogy that popped up)

if the uncertainty is with the 'system' then fix it.. but dont ignore the crime... and yes, the point is going back to the flawed system.. but which would you rather have more innocents in jail or more criminals on the street? i prefer more possible criminals on the street dont cost us money, as we feed and house then re compensate those that finally get out... if you want to break it down to economics;

ultimately it comes down to admission or change of the laws... we are not innocent until proven guilty.. period...if it is my word against a cops word, i am guilty 100% of the time... who would you believe, me or a cop....

if i am sitting at the defendants chair and you are asked to ID the perpetrator, are you going to even look at the jury box to consider anyone in there? really?

our laws an system is flawed.. and no one will pick up the first stick and point out any other flaw in fear of starting the inevetible discussion of where and when do we tolerate or draw a line...

to me it's easy... change the law... a person is guilty upon arrest... it is up to them to burden the defense to procve to the cops, the DA and the jury that they didnt do it and they shouldnt be sitting at the defendants table...

the 'defendant' loses upon arrest... they lose thier job, thier prestige thier integrity.... this guy has... look at the majority of posts in this discussion who have hung him already or cant wait until the guy hangs... the only reasonable messages of 'innocent until proven guilty messages' are cast off as whacko, and 'typcial' male standing =up for male type of stuff, (which in itself is funny as it is coming from women bashing men, as a group?)

Steph026...Not to worry, most Americans who bash the French are loonies who need a good self-cleaning themselves. There are plenty of French men with grace, charm and responsibility.

Among the vast variety of men worldwide, there is a significant number of aholes who are smug, self-satisfied, immoral self involved creeps. Doesn't make any difference the nationality...every country gets their allotment.

anghiari...Amen to that.

It's a lack of history being taught in our schools today. Coming to there aid in the 2 World Wars is seen, by many of the ignorant, as a sign of weakness of them. We only was able to do that as they also put themselves on the line and helped us become America. The world revolves around the picking and choosing of who our friends will be. This both in our everyday life and on a National scale, We have done well to have France as our friend, and us be there's.

....Among the vast variety of men worldwide, there is a significant number of aholes who are smug, self-satisfied, immoral self involved creeps. Doesn't make any difference the nationality...every country gets their allotment....

im guessing there is a balance of unscrupulous women to equal the number of 'aholes'...

jumpintoconclusion...You want to tell that to the women who are still being violated in African nations? How about you work your tushie off and put an end to rape? Or do you just assume that's the right of every male? Yeesh...That's what the Neanderthal men thought too. Grow up. Tell Mommy to stop telling her sweetums he is always right and cannot ever be second guessed.

Ewent - you are out of line and expect men to take your tongue lashing without rebuttal. I am reading these posts (you are dominating the boards) - yet, you make me hold my ears and roll my eyes. Your fingerpointing is getting old and I hope the males in my life never cross your "chip on your shoulder" path.

i would punish men who rape, and women who feign rape equally....one is no worst then the other.... if a guy rapes, cut his nuts off and make him eat them raw...if a woman claims / accuses of rape 'WRONGFULLY' make her eat her own vagina... she should not be allowed to procreate... period...

public exhibitions of these punishments will hopefully prevent future occurances..

Well now ,,,,,I'd go along with the punish both equally .

But I'd draw the line on those punisments you've described.

Or maybe she was doing her job as a hotel maid and he tried to rape her.

Where did you get the idea that the Softel has some sort of tabs on its guests and the maids don't have access to the rooms they clean? Or what, they come in by twos? Seriously? You got this information from what, James Bond movies?? You think she couldn't have possibly identified the guy who she says did this? Your arguments make no sense (which is obviously why the police arrested him.

ritamco - what have you been smoking?!? Now you are theorizing that she forced herself on him? Really? So, she forced herself on him and is now shouting rape? Poor little politician, to have been treated so rudely in our great country!

ritamco...How do 62 year old male pedophiles force children to have oral sex with them? Your post is about as ridiculous as it gets.

ritamco...The same way a lot of kinky CEOs wait until no one is on the floor their office is in and then go after the one woman working a little late on her project. Or, here's one you'll love. One creep I worked for decided the only time during the 8-hour day my secretary could do her filing was when he was alone in his office. This jerk even situated his office filing cabinets so he'd get a good view every time she had to bend over to file in the shallow end of the cabinet.

...

Oh, did you see that one little tiny blurb in the news story? The one that removes all doubt? It was that little tiny line that said, HE'S A POLITICIAN.

Perhaps that will help to clear the fog from your head. ...

all politicians are perverts? Obama has sex with dogs? Hillary Clinton plays with little girls? GET REAL...

...How do 62 year old male pedophiles force children to have oral sex with them? Your post is about as ridiculous as it gets...

wow.. pretty big leap for an example to be made.... go from unwanted sexual to kid rape..... might as well throw the toilet and kitchen sink at this guy too

Actually, his post exemplifies the attitudes towards women that is prevalent among rich European men, even more than among rich American men.

ritamco is your real name R. Sole?

yeah,yeah,were doing DNA on the perp

DNA dont mean squat..... it doent confirm or deny consentual sex....She could have agreed then refuted it with a big fat comment like... YOUR BUSTED... and maybe even who hired her to set him up, which is why he bolted???

kinda like 'give it to me big boy', then after.. ' THANKS, now your busted.. see you in jail and good luck with your election plans...'

this is not that unthinkable... i am sure a lot more subversive techniques have been done...and this way. whether he did or didnt, will affect/ruin his chances...

jumpintoaconclusion you must be R. Sole's twin.

jumptoconclusion: DNA doesn't mean squat??? That's hilarious. Good thing you're not on his legal defense team with such an astute mind.

please tell me ... what does DNA, indicate then? can you tell me from examining / determining DNA if the acts were consenual or not???

enlighten me oh estute one?

jumping: you are the same as ewent in this conversation, just on the other side of the spectrum. Given the information we have (albeit limited), it looks like this guy is guilty. We won't know until there is a trial and (hopefully) we get enough conclusive facts to ascertain what happened. A big part of that will be DNA, particularly if she is injured (places him with her when injury occurred), or under fingernails (indicates defensive action against him)

If he is guilty he should "eat his own nuts" is how I believe you put it. If she was lying there will be a civil suit and she will have to pay restitution, and if there is conspiratorial fraud, maybe jail time.

Many women are spiteful and catty. Many men are arrogant and without morals. However, most people are good, and it would behoove us to remember that.

The DNA will tell if he had sex with her,,,But only shows that the DNA is his. It still does not proove that the allegations against him are true

There's other kinds of DNA besides sperm. Clearly if they're checking him over for scratches and bite marks that would indicate a fight as she alleges, and there'd be opportunity for other DNA proof along with the sperm. Then he'd have to change his story to "rough, but consensual sex" with the maid, further stretching common sense as a way to somehow come up with a story that this lowly maid couldn't possibly be telling the truth. (and that's exactly why this will never make it to a jury.)

thank you for putting me on the opposite side as ewent... but, i am not saying he is innocent, nor that he should get off or anything like that.. my 'gripe' is with the system, and the folks who jump on band wagons, (erego my moniker).. i see a lot of complacency in our society and go with the flow and dont get excited until it happens to them kind of responses.

i would hope my 'position' is one that is 'favorable' or representative of our current laws and constitution... innocent until proven guilty and as such, i have to say, this guy is innocent as the info you admit is not yet availble to us is not conclusive...or within a preponderance

I agree....but I think it is more disbelief in the entire tale, than of the victim. As you say...let the facts speak.

Tom

Why all this disbelief of the "victin" ?

Where are you seeing this? Other than the wife saying the charges are false, I can't see any part of this article claiming any "disbelief" of what the victim says.

what evidence? is there a recording of her consenting? do we now have to get video or notried proof before we consumate our lucky stars????

but, if we leave 'evidence' that proves it was unwanted advances and actions???

how do we prove a negative? how do we prove 99.99% of everything we do, just for fear of that 0.001% of the time when someone wants to manipulate something for some reason?

jumpintoaconclusion - you know, just shut up already. Wouldn't it be amusing if you got butt-f*cked and everyone just assumed you were asking for it?

Geez, I cannot BELIEVE the mentality of some of the people around here.

So in your opinion, since we cannot 100% prove that it wasn't consensual, she's lying and he's an innocent choir boy. Yeah, that's it.

jumptoconclusion: exactly what are you so worried about? Seriously, you're going to try and argue there's no such a thing as physical evidence? Wow, I hope you're never called for jury duty.

wow, such extreme rebuttals from folks who dont bother to offer or acknowledge that there cant be evidence of her possibly consenting?

im sure if, and i am saying IF, there was consentual sex, that there would 'evidence' of his ejaculation... what other evidence can be so damning? he ejaculated doesnt prove anything except that... a climax... period.. it doesnt say it was or wasnt consentual... are you going to say that if there was semen that it was rape and that confirms it?

can he or most other guy get/have evidence that it was consenual? photo acknowledgemnt from the female with a thumbs up maybe? a written/notarized document indicating her consent? and verification of her age?

I live in a state where they dont believe other states licenses are valid... so they need thier own proof of birth certificate and passport, etc.... so 'documents' by themselves are challenged in and out of court... and all you want is a confirmation that he came? and thats good enough to punish him?

So in your opinion, since we cannot 100% prove that it wasn't consensual, she's lying and he's an innocent choir boy. Yeah, that's it.

no, i am not saying that at all.. but 'physical evidence' that he had an orgasm doesnt mean rape or assualt either....it only means he came... but you can infer all you want and i will hope you are never in a jury pool in case i am wrongly charged of anything...

Oh come on! Are you kidding? He will get away with this like all powerful men with big bucks in their pockets get away with it. The poor woman will come out looking like a you know what and he will prance back to France like a bull in heat thinking he has the right to do whatever he wants to women! I am so sick of watching the disgusting, male power brokers get away with murder. Unfortunately, KARMA is hell to pay. And he will pay it. Ask Tiger Woods, or remember OJ finally got what he deserved. These powerful lawyers are jerks as well. They will defend anyone if they have enough money. My heart goes out to this woman and what she will have to go through.

@jump,

Leaving the particulars of this case behind, what does it take to prove non-consent?

Injuries? Timely reporting? Testimony?

The problem with the whole, it was consensual defense is that it puts victims on trial. Can you imagine asking a robbery victim some of the questions that rape vicitms are asked?

Why were you there?

How come you were wearing clothes that made you look like you had money?

Have you ever given money away to anyone?

Why didn't you resist?

My gripe is not about the merits of the case, although I highly doubt that the NYPD would have reacted so quickly and potentially caused an International incdient without more than her word, it is about the conversation implying that she somehow could have avoided the assault or that she may have agreed to the act and immediately turned around and cried wolf.

i agree and understand but on a 'case by case' basis, those questions need to be asked and publicized as much as the 'other stuff' is publicized...

why was she there? easy, she works there,

why was she wearing what she was wearing? yada yada,

easy questions and easy answers for her and this case... as i stated above, i understand the 'problem' with interviewing or having the victim put on trial.. but what is the alternative? she said and he is guilty.. period?

too many folks here have already convicted this guy... based on the little info publicized, and or his 'postion'/stature, or worst, hers... which to me is a bigger assimption... she works at a four star hotel and in my humble opinion probably makes more then minimum wage, (especially counting the tips) can you imagine what kinda of tip is left from someone who pays $3k a night? im guessing she makes bank...and there are folks dieing to get her job ... in fact, i am guessing there are whores who dont make as much as she makes...

It's definetly not a "Motel 6" where she works ,,,,,,,,,I have to say that you're presenting some valid arguing points that need to be considred ...

I'd say that his 'stature in society" will insulate him , even if he's found guilty

Jump to conclusion: You don't ask rape victims what they did to supposedly provoke the rape. The alternative is to go where the evidence leads you. Does he have a plausible reason for the DNA evidence in his hotel room? Does he have a plausible reason for the DNA match (if it does match)? Does he have a plausible reason for leaving the scene so quickly, on the first scheduled flight without cell or wallet? Is his history or other victims relevant? We're not on the jury, and we're not the judge. The system will judge him as it should.

agreed, you dont 'question' the victim about what they did to provoke, but you do ask particulars, where, when, did you know the guy, did you meet him before, etc...and follow it up with 'everything' connected to those answers.

as far as reasonable explanations for DNA, (Im assuming semen?), he had sex, with or without someone? thats reasonable...

what is quick flight? did he change reservations? I didnt read that, but if he did. the question is kinda valid.. but, better ask everyone who left the hotel why they left? or at least all teh males. if not, the questioning is biased... and then all he would ahve to say, is BECAUSE, he was informed by the housekeeper that he was going to be identified as an attacker, when he knew he wasnt, and he felt the system wouldnt treat him fairly and or the media would represent him fairly, and or the public wouldnt percieve the information fairly... I would definately run if i was wrongfully accused...

I would absolutely turn myself in if i was guilty and there were witnesses and testimony and evidence.. why run then... but as long as i know i am innocent, let them print and rant about all the stuff they want while i try to live my life free, which i deserve... as i didnt do it... i now it dont look good, but i dont give a rats ass about 'looks'.. i care about the thickness of my bed...

but then again, i take responsibility for my actions nor do i try to mitigate my errors... i learn my mistakes better that way..

"you can force oral" with a firearm. yes, but you couldn't force her to turn loose unless you shoot her in the head, you know, kinda like a snapping turtle won't turn loose til sundown!

madMarineDad...The guy's hormones were raging. He knocks her down on the floor...Get the picture? I'm sure you know that one since many guys in the military get away with sexual assault of females in the military.

But as usual, she cries rape and the Big Guns ignore her or try to intimidate her by downgrading her military status. Puhlease...the military is the biggest enabler of sexual predators.

Huh? How did the military get in this picture?

maybe from someone who knows about rape

hey, wait ewent, you misunderstood my poor attempt at humor. in citizens against crime we teach women ways to attempt to free yourself from the situation. for example, trying to make yourself vomit on the perp, or sometimes over-the-top fake aggression like, "oh you want some of this, big boy. i thought you would never ask. and, finally, if all else fails, we teach "cuddle (scotum), squeeze, and YANK! don't know many men who aren't powerless, if only for enough time to escape when this tactic is employed. so, my apologies for sick humor, but my point is, if oral is forced, then chomp down and hang on for dear life, or until you've left an identifying mark of your own. also, i know a lot of horror stories of rape in the military, not from my personal experience as i was never a marine, but the angry dad of one who died. while in iraq he confessed to me things that he had witnessed that completely reversed his desire to do a second tour, as he had said just shortly before that. unfortunately, i have known many "pigs" in my day, but some of us were raised to respect women, even the ones who don't always deserve it. read my other posts and you will see i always tend to believe the underdog, and have nothing but total disgust for the "good ole boy" network. I sense there may be more to your anger, i hope you find peace.

oops, typo, meant scrotum!

madMarinedad, so sorry to read about your son. I'm sure he was a fine soldier. I've had family over there as well and was fortunate and blessed to have them come home alive and in one piece.

im guessing he has ticked off a million people and probably many companies who have the resources to hire and set him up.... not saying he was or wasnt, but the argument that a choir boy wont ever be setup isnt valid

It would be much more fun if the whole thing was a caper

Seems perfectly plausible to me...the guy sounds like someone very used to taking what he wants and getting away with it. Having her run screaming from the room would certainly cause him to realize he might have a bit of difficulty this time, and try to get on that plane quickly...which he almost succeeded in doing. Leaving a cell and a wallet behind sure doesn't look like someone who was on his normal course of business.

Why would he leave his wallet and ID behind, so the police can find it and identify him?

Freedom4Everyone - the man was staying in a luxury suite that cost $3000 per night. Do you really believe that the police would need his wallet to identify him? Does the hotel not keep records on who is staying in their rooms.

If he is guilty, he must know there is a extradition treaty with France.

What does guilt have to do with knowing whether an extradition treaty exists? So, if he didn't know whether an extradition treaty exists, that would mean he is innocent? BTW, the crime was committed in the USA. Our courts are not going to extradite him back to France for a crime that was committed here. If he had landed in France, chances are that he would not have been sent back to the USA for a case such as this. Foreign countries refuse to extradite for worse crimes all the time.

Freedom: You can't believe that someone so smart can be so stupid? How about Bill Clinton in the Oval Office?

or bush in an elementary classroom...

Mad:

Why do you have to bring up Bush?

What the hell does he have to do with this?

Clinton did however- possibly use his position to coeherce a young intern into oral sex...

In this case the IMF chief there is a similarity here. But Bush in an elementary class.

That is a low blow......

Ever try staying on topic???

DaveM...I'm no supporter of stupidity or bad judgment. But, I never for once believed that Monica Lewinsky was "forced". She had a golddigger gleam in her eyes and then there was that friend of hers, Linda what's her face, giving her all the right talking points. So when you talk about set up, Monica Lewinsky by my view isn't exactly innocent. So while Clinton's zipper brain did all the deciding, little Miss Monica was already working her script.

That was such a well choreographed plot to get at the one weak flaw in Clinton. But it did serve Bush quite well. MoralityGate was what got him elected, wasn't it?

ewent, the point about Clinton is that he is a very smart man, but he was utterly stupid thinking that he could get away fooling around with a White House intern.

Very powerful people often think they can get away with anything. This man has a rep for being a womanizer as well. So it is entirely plausible that he thought he could just grab this woman and do whatever he wanted.

Where does it say he left his wallet and ID behind? I only see that he left his cell phone. I do think this all sounds fishy, though. A guy with this much money would have not trouble getting professional "room service" in NYC. Very odd.

sorry davem, any attack on clinton or obama's stupidity compels me to lump ole W in there. now, back on topic, the only comparison to clinton here is a politician EXPLOITED a subordinate. confused how you can assume Lewinsky's innocence, while condemning a maid of "wanting it", and villify clinton while defending a filthy rich bankster. racist or republican, which, or both? i'm guessing you assume the maid is black or hispanic, or just plain white trash...not the perfectly innocent little california princess like moanica.

Mad Marine:

That is okay.

I think that the IMF guy thought he could get away with it as all the self entitled rich people that I have met think they are above the law. It is hard to describe, but I find that they are full of themselves through their success and literally are above the law- I would even add sports figures in this category.

As to the ethnicity of the maid- it does not matter. I believe that by him leaving his cell phone, wallet, and looking for the first flight out- this story is a real one.

He was already shamed on what he did to the reporter in France- and Ewent above called it right on- Monica was somewhat of a gold digger.

Sorry to be so long, but Semper Fi - tough times with politicians around the world acting the same.

the man was staying in a luxury suite that cost $3000 per night

Exactly, so why would he rape someone there where hes sure to be caught? The man is obviously not stupid. Leaving his cell only identifies him further. Criminals generally are a little smarter then this, thats why it makes no sense at all. Especially a man with his education.

extradition

I was referring to the fact, he would know that if he got away to France, he would also be extradited, back to the USA.. He would know that the two countries have an extradition treaty.

This is more evidence in my mind, that this would make him think twice about commiting a rape where hes sure to be caught.

Thats why this is fishy. The man would have to be trying to get caught. Thats why it seems like a setup.

Scales, you need a reading comp class badly, you always get it wrong what people are trying to say. This isnt the first time, you were the only one who didnt get it. And I had to explain it to you.

There ya go . . .why did he get on an airplane for France without his cell phone period? People hang on to those phones like they were an extra appendage. If he left his wallet and ID as well, why did he? Must have been in quite a hurry! What for?

Why do people keep saying he left his wallet and ID? There is no mention of that in the article.

There's always that chance, but there is also a chance that this wealthy individual who is a known womanizer is guilty of the charges.

Known as "the great seducer". Left in a hurry, leaving behind his cell phone and other important things. If I had to believe one or the other at this very moment, I would be inclined to believe the woman. If it walks like a pig, talks like a pig, .......

Bruce: Do you always believe that women "make it up"? Especially those working as maids? Good thing you're not on the police force.

AP, I think you misread Bruce's post. He's siding with the woman and not DSK:

"Left in a hurry, leaving behind his cell phone and other important things. If I had to believe one or the other at this very moment, I would be inclined to believe the woman."

All better now?

Do you believe that all handsome men are womanizers?

thetruthandfacts2012 - Read post #1.1 by Peter Jacobs. There are many incidents in the past that would point to the strong possibility that the maid is telling the truth.

@truth and fact: you think this guy is handsome?

Thanks Linda. You are correct. While there are certainly times when women make up things like this, any woman who does report something like this knows that they will be put through the wringer, especially with such a high profile accused. Most of these incidents probably go unreported because of this. The victims don't want to lose their jobs and don't want to be demonized, and figure it's just much easier to keep their mouths shut. The perpetrators know this, and probably count on it. In this case, the fact that the woman left the room screaming in hysterics let him know that this one was somehow different, and he found the need to leave as quickly as possible. If nothing happened, why would he leave so quickly? Why would he leave things behind? While it's certainly possible that she made the whole thing up, this story doesn't smell like one of those times. The sad thing is, we may never really know. I still suspect that somehow this woman will recant her story and drop the charges after signing all sorts of paperwork stating she will never talk about the incident again. She will live comfortably somewhere and this man will "move on with his life". I hope she's more interested in putting him behind bars than she is about money, because that's what needs to happen IF he did what he is accused of. This is NOT a victimless crime, and there most certainly would be more victims.

Julia...What chance has she got? Maid vs. IMF President? It reeks of class warfare.

well she's got the chance that he left DNA evidencce in the hotel room, which he apparantly did. Let's see what his excuse is when it's discovered to be a match.

Bruce: Do you always believe that women "make it up"? Especially those working as maids? Good thing you're not on the police force.

actually i wish he was on the force... any woman can say 'he hit me', and the cops are required to arrest HIM.... it is national policy ... at least it is uniformly adopted in every state... there is no thinking allowed.. no running the 'victim' thru the wringer.. it is all about whatever is told to the cops...

if they dont arrest HIM, then they face lawsuits for failure to protect....

I am not sure that 'evidence' is left behind... did he leave behind a recording or other document that confirms that she agreed to sex??? does that evidence exist? (assuming she did)...

the only evidence that could be left is that he ejaculated... it dont say if it was unwanted or not...

and as a cop or any other logical human being, oral sex woiuld need to be assumed to be consentual unless there is evidence of a weapon of coercion...or evidence of phisical harm or threats made... does she have bruises or a recording of him threatening him?

is the amount of evidence needed to arrest him the same as whatever is needed to exonerate him??? I doubt it... that is left for teh courts...

Bruce: Do you always believe that women "make it up"? Especially those working as maids? Good thing you're not on the police force.

Do you even bother to read posts or do you just comment on them?! I have made multiple posts sticking up for the woman and saying that while it's POSSIBLE she made it up, it doesn't seem like she probably did. No, I do not believe that women always make it up. In fact, I believe that in the VAST majority of cases, they do NOT make it up.

I do think there are many cases where women are assaulted by powerful men, and then after being dragged through the mud and seeing that they probably cannot win (because they don't have the resources and power on their side), end up taking a payout in return for their silence. I find this as very unfortunate because they really deserve better. But no, I don't think she is making it up. I think he is probably the pig he is depicted as. And in the end, I doubt he will spend any meaningful time in jail because he is rich and powerful and she is a hotel maid.

Jumptoconclusion: You sound like someone with some real issues about women. There's probably a board for that somewhere.

Meanwhile, here on the normal side of the planet: evidence does work to convict those accused of sexual assault--such as DNA evidence. Especially if the DNA evidence both in the room, on her person, and on his were a match (course the defense could always go with your theory that random women just make this stuff up, but at that point, I'm guessing the odds are with a plea deal.)

im not disputing that physical evidence is a good thing and or a beneift to prosecution, but I serously doubt that a case with only one single evidence of DNA will convict anyone... He came.. .it's semen.. it happens after the 'excitement' of a male anatomy.. it can be induced by himself, with the aid of someone else or by his forcing himself on someone else...but the fact of evidence being present doesnt determine how it came to be present...

if there are marks, bruses, or other 'corroborating evidence', then yea... but by itself, it is just an evidence that he was excited enought to 'climax'...period

and BRUCE., sorry, i was actually repliying to someone else who quoted you...but didnt know how to use the quote properly..

Apology accepted.

"truth" thinks this guy is handsome?

LOL

If he did they shoulda told us that already, so we wouldn't get our hopes up

Hopes up? Funny way to put it. But obviously, if this had been done at gunpoint I think that would have been mentioned.

If he did threaten her with a weapon, then he obviously committed a serious criminal act, and should be punished accordingly.. and there's no more reason for anyone with a sense of humor, or a real desire to seek pleasure in life, to pay much more attention to the story. Still funny?

By funny, I mean that it's STRANGE to say that we should have our hopes up to hear that a gun was used. And as I said, I don't think a gun could have been involved in this crime without mention by the police, as there would be no benefit to the case in concealing that information. The police spokesman mentioned a cel phone being left behind as if it were some kind of case clincher. I don;t think they would have forgotten to say that someone was held at gunpoint. I'm sorry I so easily confused you, Doug.

Evidently you were confused.. my hopes would be brought DOWN to hear that a gun was used

Doug! You were the one who said "we shouldn't get our hopes up". That suggests you were hoping for such a thing. If you meant something else, explain.

I said, and I quote (rather pointlessly, since you can read the post above), "if he did they shoulda told us that already, so we wouldn't get our hopes up." Wouldn't is a contraction. It means 'would NOT.' So you see, if they had told us he used a gun, we would NOT get our hopes up.

OK, I guess.

Unless, of course, we were hoping he did use a gun to threaten her into oral sex. I guess there's room for everyone's fantasy here.. that's just not one that gets me off

ritamco...Get a clue ....He knocks her to the floor, opens his zipper (if he wasn't walking around waving his flag beforehand, that is) and pins her wrists. No gun needed. Just a lot of force. Unless she weighed more than him and could think fast enough to make him walk "funny" for the rest of his life, he had the advantage.

There is no mention of a gun or any other weapon.

Yes, they always have their "aides" with them on business trips IN their hotel rooms. You just wait for that "other side of the coin" to validate that theory.

don"t Believe the Hype she only After the Money!!!!

...jogging naked in its hallway...

German - Where does the article make this statement? He was in a suite. Some suites have hallways, depending on the floor plan. As for being naked, he had just stepped out of the shower.

damn Viagra! which one said "the devil made me do it"?

The devil made me do it!!

Where does it say he did it before?

"It is a lie, you, idiot !"

John Edwards could have used you.

The idea that politicians with their arrogance can't do this is lunacy

Thetruth: LOL! 62 years old and you don't believe he could do this?? How old are you exactly? 10?

truth, please define "good politician". i looked it up and it said "see oxymoron".

First read EWENT posts. Then all you have to do is read a little of the French press to see that this has happened a couple of times before. Once he wrestled a young journalist to the floor and he said he "lost his head."

Are you suggesting bright men don't do this? You are joking, right? Can YOU possibly be that ignorant?

A "claim"???? I suspect the injuries and "bodily fluids" will be overlooked? - also a maid who has worked at the hotel for a number of years? WOW such ignorance.

thetruthandfacts 2012 - -do you think that because he is 62, he can't physically do what he allegedly did! Boy are you ignorant! Wake up kiddo, he can still produce into his 80s. Even if Viagra was used, he can still accomplish what any 20 year old can do.

so he is 62 and sex just does not happen any more huh? lol and politicians good? again lol and lmao. so your saying Bill Clinton a very smart person who WAS the president never had Monica clean the old smoke pole huh? with a name like truthandfacts your not very knowledgeable on the real facts are you . i find you very funny do you have your own comedy show and if you do whats i called i would watch it . oh btw Hugh Hefner must be rolling over his 2 girls laughing his butt off on the he is 62 and he couldnt do anything like that lol. your a moron lol.

irrevalent! Stay focused. You can do it.

No he couldn't start to tell you what that room cost or anything else in life. It's all part of his entitlements. How very strange that the very people that make the biggest noise about the poor being fed, the elderly getting SS and medical help are the same ones, whose position as CEO an some politicians, have there homes, travel,personal servants ,Nanny's ,cars and drivers, and million dollar life time guaranteed income, paid for by the everyday, trying just to survive, working man who they do everything in there power to reduce to a serf.

Would you be asking these questions, and suggesting excuses, if it was done at the Mom an Pops Spend a Night motel, and the man was a Black businessman and the maid white? Perverts come in all status and economic levels. Be honest with yourself. Would it have been any less tragic for this women trying to do the right thing and make a honest living? I admire her for standing up and saying "I refuse to be a Victim!" Can you imagine how hard you, perpetual excuse makers, make this to do? She, and the others living this experience deserve better, much much better.

Right, because we've all been accused of hotel room rape of maids and can identify with the proble of being maligned for that. His career is over--this doesn't happen twice by "accident".