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4w ago

Dani Alves' Rape Conviction Overturned by Spanish Court

The Catalan High Court ruled insufficient evidence and inconsistencies voided the presumption of guilt, lifting all restrictions on the former soccer star.

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TOPSHOT - Brazilian footballer Dani Alves looks on at the start of his trial at the High Court of Justice of Catalonia in Barcelona, on February 5, 2024. Brazilian footballer Dani Alves, a former star at Barca and PSG, goes on trial in Barcelona accused of raping a woman in a local nightclub. Prosecutors are asking for a nine-year prison sentence, followed by 10 years of conditional liberty. They are also asking he pay 150,000 euros ($162,000) in compensation to the woman. (Photo by Jordi BORRAS / POOL / AFP) (Photo by JORDI BORRAS/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • The Catalan High Court annulled Dani Alves' 2024 rape conviction, citing gaps, inaccuracies, and contradictions in the original trial's evidence and testimony.
  • The court emphasized that the complainant's testimony lacked reliability and did not align with video footage, undermining the prosecution's case.
  • With the conviction overturned, all restrictions on Alves, including a travel ban and restraining order, have been lifted.
  • The decision does not validate Alves' version of events and remains subject to appeal to Spain's Supreme Court.
  • This case was the first high-profile trial under Spain's 2022 'only yes means yes' consent law, raising broader discussions on evidentiary standards in sexual assault cases.