Former Rangers Star Claudio Caniggia Faces Trial for Alleged Sex Attack on Ex-Wife
Former Rangers star Claudio Caniggia has been ordered to stand trial for an alleged sex attack on his ex-wife, Mariana Nannis. The former Dundee and Argentina striker had attempted to halt the proceedings against him, but the Criminal Division of Argentina’s Nations Appeals Court rejected his lawyers’ arguments. Caniggia is now facing charges of “aggravated sexual abuse” and could potentially face up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
The alleged incident took place in 2018 at the Faena Hotel in the upscale Buenos Aires neighborhood of Puerto Madero. Mariana, the mother of Caniggia’s three children, initiated the investigation by accusing him of rape. She claimed that he forced himself on her after she rejected his advances, physically assaulted her, and threatened to kill her if she went to the police.
Local reports suggest that testimonies from hotel staff and photographs of Mariana’s injuries will be presented as evidence against Caniggia. Despite being banned from leaving Argentina since June, the former footballer has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Caniggia, who played for both River Plate and Boca Juniors in his homeland, is a cult legend at many of the clubs he has represented. His goal against Dunfermline in 2003 helped Rangers secure the title, and he also scored against arch-rivals Celtic in the League Cup final that year. Prior to his time at Rangers, Caniggia spent a season at Dundee from 2000 to 2001.
In addition to his club success, Caniggia had an impressive international career. He scored 16 goals in 50 appearances for Argentina and participated in three World Cups. He played in the 1990 and 1994 tournaments before being excluded from the national team for several years due to his refusal to cut his long hair under the strict regime of Daniel Passarella. However, he made a comeback in the 2002 World Cup.
The trial is expected to shed further light on the allegations against Caniggia and determine his legal fate. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence. The case has attracted significant media attention, given Caniggia’s status as a former football star and his involvement with high-profile clubs.
It is important to note that Caniggia’s guilt or innocence has yet to be determined by the court. The trial will provide an opportunity for both sides to present their evidence and arguments. The outcome will ultimately depend on the court’s evaluation of the evidence and its interpretation of the law.
As the legal proceedings unfold, it is crucial to respect the privacy and rights of all parties involved. Allegations of sexual assault are serious and should be handled with sensitivity and care. The trial will serve as a platform for justice to be served, and it is essential that the legal process is allowed to run its course.
In conclusion, Claudio Caniggia, the former Rangers star, is set to stand trial for an alleged sex attack on his ex-wife. The charges of “aggravated sexual abuse” carry a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years if he is found guilty. The trial will provide an opportunity for both sides to present their evidence, and the court will ultimately determine Caniggia’s legal fate. As the proceedings continue, it is important to respect the privacy and rights of all parties involved and allow the legal process to unfold.