Scorpions rocker James Kottak jailed in Dubai for insulting Islam, reports say
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Musician James Kottak of the German band Scorpions performs during the annual Byblos International Festival in the ancient city of Byblos, north of Beirut, July 4, 2011. Picture taken July 4, 2011. REUTERS/ Mohamed Azakir (LEBANON - Tags: ENTERTAINMENT) - RTR2OHCT
Newspapers in the United Arab Emirates are reporting that the American drummer for the rock band Scorpions has been sentenced to one month in jail after being convicted of offensive behavior in Dubai.
The government-backed National newspaper reported Tuesday that James Kottak was convicted of insulting Islam, raising his middle finger, and being under the influence of alcohol while in transit at Dubai airport.
The Gulf News daily says he was arrested April 3 en route from Russia to Bahrain, where the German band was scheduled to perform at a Formula One race. Kottak was a no-show at the April 5 concert.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The newspapers say Kottak admitted to drinking but denied other charges.
The Scorpions' manager did not respond to requests for comment. Kottak's local lawyer couldn't immediately be reached.