EGYPT: Bathouse Raid Trial Continues, Defense Claims Violations Of Privacy

Via the Associated Press:

One lawyer representing 14 of the men, Islam Khalifa, told the court Sunday that the defendants suffered “psychological duress” from the publicized arrests, which defamed and endangered both them and their families in conservative Egypt. He said having the television crew there violated the men’s right to privacy and Egypt’s constitution. Of the 26 men, 21 have undergone medical examinations to see if they had had anal sex. Three of men had trauma that required further examination, defense lawyer Tarek al-Awadi said. The men face charges including debauchery and performing indecent public acts. Such vague terms can apply to prostitution or even public display of affection. Their trial began Dec. 21. On Sunday, the men stood in a small cage in the court, some with hoodies covering their face. Two wept in front of journalists, who were not allowed to approach them. Family members were not allowed to attend the session, apparently to avoid outbursts as lawyers discussed details of the case. Angry family members largely refused to speak to the journalists gathered there, accusing them of trying to slander their relatives. “We are innocent! We were scandalized! No one in our family is gay!” one screamed.

The men face up to 17 years in prison.