Paris - Former Dior designer John Galliano is going on trial on charges he hurled racist insults at people at a Paris cafe, allegations that shocked the fashion world and cost him his job.
The designer's lawyer, Aurelien Hamelle, says he will be present at the trial on Wednesday.
Galliano is charged with “public insults based on origin, religious affiliation, race or ethnicity” and could face up to six months in prison and 22 500 euros ($32 175) in fines. The verdict is expected at a later date.
A couple contended that the British designer made anti-Semitic comments to them in February, and another woman then came forward with similar claims about last October.
Galliano said he was “seeking help” for personal failures. An alcohol test showed he was inebriated after the February incident. - Sapa-AP