Berlusconi gets 7 years

A Milan judge has sentenced former Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi to seven years in prison. He was found guilty of paying a teenage girl for sex – and then trying to cover it up.

Prosecutors had asked for a six year jail term and a permanent ban on him running for office. The 76 year old Berlusconi doesn’t hold a seat right now- but he’s still an influential player in Italian politics. He’s active in the cross-party coalition that formed after February’s inconclusive elections.

The underage sex charges stem from his time as premier. He was famous for holding what were called “bunga bunga” parties and wining and dining young women.

Both Berlusconi and the woman at the centre of the scandal have denied ever having sex. The former premier can still appeal the conviction before the sentence is finalized. That process may take years.