Ex-prison chaplain appeals conviction

(ANSA) - Milan, March 4 - Milan prosecutors on Wednesday requested a term of seven years four months for Father Alberto Barin, a former prison chaplain convicted of extorting sexual favors from prisoners in exchange for cigarettes and other highly coveted items.
    The 53-year-old prelate is appealing his conviction.
    Barin was arrested in November 2012 on aggravated sexual assault charges involving 12 North African detainees aged 23-43.
    Prosecutors at his trial of first instance asked for 14 years eight months but the judge sentenced the priest to four years.
    Barin, who is under house arrest in a convent, has defended himself by saying his conduct involved consensual acts between adults.