Karim Benzema could face 5 years in jail if convicted of sex tape scandal

Karim Benzema

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema could face five years in prison over an alleged sex tape blackmail plot involving a national squad teammate. The French international, who was linked with a move to Arsenal in August, is accused of attempting to extort money from fellow player Mathieu Valbuena. Benzema, 27, appeared before a judge in Versailles after being held in custody overnight, reports  Express. He faces a formal investigation in connection with "complicity in attempt to blackmail" and conspiring to commit a criminal act, according to the prosecutor's office in Versailles. The prosecutor said Benzema could face a minimum jail sentence of five years if formal charges follow and he is convicted. The scandal comes over a year after charges of sex with an underage prostitute against Benzema and French teammate Franck Ribery were dropped due to a lack of evidence.
Benzema's lawyer said he played "no part" in the blackmail or attempted blackmail of Valbuena. A recording of a phone conversation is at the centre of the investigation into Benzema, according to the French media.  Three other men have been placed under formal investigation after Valbuena was contacted by someone claiming to have the video.
The Lyon-born footballer has been banned from meeting Lyon midfielder Valbuena, which has prompted concern about the two players' future involvement in the French national team. France coach Didier Deschamps has subsequently left out both players of his squad for matches against Germany and England later in November. Deschamps refused to comment on the legal case but said Benzema was injured and Valbuena was not in an emotional state to start.
Benzema's lawyer, Sylvain Cormier, said his client is adamant he is not guilty of the charges.
Mr Cormier said: "Karim Benzema has absolutely nothing to hide.
"He supports his friend, Mathieu Valbuena, with all his heart. He took no part, I state this again - no part - in the blackmail or blackmail attempts."
He added: "Karim Benzema will show he acted in good faith, and I hope this will be seen as soon as possible."