Ariel Verdict Today; Defense Lawyers Hope for Acquittal

The trial has opened for an Indonesian pop star Nazril “Ariel” Irham, who faces possible jail time for making homemade sex videos that found their way onto the Internet, rocking this predominantly Muslim nation.

Ariel has been charged with violating the country's strict anti-pornography law. He faces a maximum of 12 years behind bars and a fine of $600,000.

Ariel's lawyer OC Kaligis voiced optimism for the singer's acquittal.

"I am optimistic that he will be acquitted because none of the accusations were proven," Kaligis told the Jakarta Globe.

The 29-year-old says the videos made with two celebrity girlfriends in the privacy of his home were stolen and posted online.

The courtroom was packed with supporters Monday. Outside, hundreds of hard-line Muslims held placards demanding Ariel face the maximum penalty.

“For the verdict of Ariel Peterpan, God willing, we will mobilize some 10,000 people,” said Andri Rusmana, the secretary of the West Java Alliance of Islamic Movements.

He said that the alliance hoped the judges would agree with the prosecution demand of five years in jail.