Couple get 3 months in jail for sex on beach

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A British couple charged with having sex on the beach were sentenced to three months in jail today in a case that has caused controversy in this Gulf boom town.

The judge did not provide any details about his verdict, as is customary in Dubai, so it is unclear whether Michelle Palmer and Vince Acors were found guilty of engaging in intercourse, or some lesser offense.

The two Britons, who are both in their 30s and met at an all-you-can-drink champagne brunch before the alleged incident occurred, were arrested in July and later charged with sex outside of marriage, public indecency and drunkenness.

In addition to the three-month jail sentence, Judge Hamdi Mustafa Abu el-Khair levied a 1,000 dirham (US$272) fine against each of the defendants and ordered them to be deported from Dubai after serving their prison time.

“I will appeal (the verdict) and ask a judge to look at the medical report that says they did not have sex,” their lawyer, Hassan Matter, told The Associated Press after today’s ruling.

Both previously admitted they were drunk but denied having sex. The two were not in the courtroom today to hear the judge’s verdict, and it was unclear if they would remain out of prison while their lawyer appealed the case.

Matter said he will submit his appeal after the judge issues a formal explanation of his verdict, which the lawyer expects in a week to 10 days. The defense has to file an appeal within 15 days.

“I think the judge gave a small punishment for a kiss, not sex on the beach,” said Matter.

The couple could have received two years in prison if convicted of all charges.

Public displays of affection are illegal in Dubai — a city that has worked hard to cultivate an image as a haven for Western tourists and businesses in the Middle East but has a conservative legal code based on Islamic laws and tribal rules.