Former Barcelona and Brazil footballer Dani Alves has been found guilty of raping a woman in a Barcelona nightclub, according to a court ruling in Spain. The 40-year-old football legend, renowned for his illustrious career and numerous accolades, including multiple league titles and Champions League victories, has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison.
The incident in question occurred in the early hours of December 31, 2022, when Alves allegedly sexually assaulted the woman. Despite vehemently denying the accusations, the court's decision has now been delivered, with Alves facing a substantial prison term and five years' probation.
Throughout the trial, Alves' defense argued for his acquittal, intending to appeal the verdict. However, the court upheld the victim's account, emphasizing the gravity of the offense and the suffering endured.
While prosecutors initially sought a nine-year prison sentence, the court ultimately handed down a lesser term, taking into account Alves' decision to pay the victim €150,000 in damages irrespective of the trial's outcome. Notably, the court rejected claims that Alves' intoxication should mitigate his sentence, asserting that alcohol consumption did not excuse his actions.
According to the prosecution's case, Alves and his friend allegedly bought champagne for three young women before coercing one of them into a secluded area of the nightclub under false pretenses. It was here, prosecutors argued, that Alves forcibly assaulted the woman, disregarding her pleas to stop.
Despite Alves' insistence that the encounter was consensual, the court ruled otherwise, emphasizing the victim's lack of consent. The verdict underscores recent legal reforms in Spain aimed at strengthening laws surrounding consent, known as the "Only Yes is Yes" principle.
In its statement, the court cited evidence beyond the victim's testimony, highlighting Alves' violent actions and the woman's distress. Alves' inconsistent testimony throughout the trial further undermined his defense, ultimately contributing to his conviction.
The verdict marks a significant fall from grace for Alves, once a revered figure in football circles, known for his on-field prowess and leadership. As he faces the consequences of his actions, Alves' legacy is tarnished, casting a shadow over his storied career and achievements on the pitch.
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