Dirty Details to Emerge in D.C. Madam's Trial

WASHINGTON - The relationship between an escort and a customer is always for pay. But what happens between the two is not always as clear-cut. The normally private details are about to be made very public, as the trial of alleged D.C. madam Deborah Jeane Palfrey begins Monday.

Palfrey is charged under federal racketeering statutes. This is the first time federal prosecutors in D.C. have ever used that tool in a prostitution case.

Prosecutors say Palfrey received her cut through the mail from women who had customers in Virginia, Maryland and the District. Palfrey and her lawyers have said they intend to call customers to the stand.

One of the names on the defense witness list is Sen. David Vitter, R-La., but his lawyer says the senator will not testify. He will plead the Fifth Amendment and will not incriminate himself.

Many of Palfrey's former escorts are expected to take the stand against her, several have been offered immunity by prosecutors.

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