Strauss-Kahn 'pimping' trial begins

The trial of Dominique Strauss-Kahn on sex charges in France - the nation where he once was considered a top presidential contender - was to begin on Monday, local time.

The former head of the International Monetary Fund, whose career went down in flames amid accusations of sexually assaulting a hotel maid in New York, is looking at similarly shocking charges in France: aggravated pimping and involvement in a prostitution ring operating out of luxury hotels.

The French economist, known widely as DSK, faces up to 10 years in prison and a $1.7-million fine. He and more than a dozen other French and Belgian businessmen and police officers go on trial beginning on Monday in the northern French city of Lille.