US mayor denies scandal charge

Kwame Kilpatrick, 37, was charged after sexually explicit text messages surfaced that appeared to contradict his sworn denials.

He is charged with perjury, obstruction of justice and misconduct in office, and could face up to 15 years in jail if convicted.

The aide, Christine Beatty, also pleaded not guilty.

Released on bail

Mayor Kilpatrick is being investigated over claims he lied under oath last year when he said he had not engaged in a physical relationship with Ms Beatty, his chief-of-staff.

Ms Beatty, 37, who had also denied under oath she had a romance with the mayor, announced her resignation in January.

They appeared at separate court hearings in Detroit, and were then released on bail.

The district magistrate has set 9 June as the date for their preliminary examinations.

The two were charged on Monday, when prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that she had authorised a 12-count criminal indictment.

"Honesty and integrity in the justice system is everything. That is what this case is about," Ms Worthy was quoted as saying by the Associated Press.

Lawyers for Mr Kilpatrick and Ms Beatty said their clients would be exonerated.

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