Strauss-Kahn pleads not guilty to sex charges

People shouted 'shame on you' as Strauss-Kahn arrived at the New York court on Monday 

Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pleaded not guilty to charges he sexually assaulted a hotel maid in New York.

The 62-year-old could face up to 25 years in prison if convicted on charges including attempted rape, sex abuse, a criminal sex act, unlawful imprisonment and forcible touching.

The former IMF chief has maintained his innocence but the case has already cost him his job and the chance to run for French president in next year's elections.

Around 100 women dressed as maids protested outside the court where Strauss-Kahn appeared on Monday, shouting "shame on you".

Strauss-Kahn is on house arrest under armed guard, after being arrested on May 14 this year.

His appearance on Monday was his first sine he was released from jail last month on a $6m bail and bond. 

The 32-year-old maid at the Sofitel near Times Square in Manhattan told police Strauss-Kahn chased her down a hallway in his Sofitel hotel suite and tried to assault her.