This could include a one year prison sentence for the photographer and Closer’s editor. There will also be an application for a fine, a prominent apology, and an attempt to have further distribution of the images stopped, reports the Daily Mail.
The alleged photographer of the contentious pictures, Valerie Suau has worked for some of the biggest news agencies in Europe and will be named in evidence presented to a French judge by the Royal couple’s lawyers. She denies producing anything ‘explicit’.
The royal couple will complain of a ‘grotesque’ breach of privacy after French Closer published the images last week. A palace spokeswoman said: ‘The complaint concerns the taking of photographs of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge whilst on holiday and the publication of those photographs in breach of their privacy.’ William and Kate have indicated that they are prepared to present evidence themselves.
But Laurence Pieau, Closer’s editor, has insisted that she will fight the legal action, arguing that William and Kate were easily visible from a public road, and that the pictures taken were tasteful and of great interest to the public.
The news came as an Italian magazine owned by Silvio Berlusconi said they will also publish 50 photos of the Duchess of Cambridge topless in spite of the Palace’s requests for restraint. Royal aides are trying to establish if an 11th-hour injunction can be sought against publication.
Images via Getty
