Graf’s Dad Loses Appeal

The father of tennis star Steffi Graf will remain in jail on tax evasion charges after losing his appeal.

Peter Graf was described by defense lawyer Peter Slania as suffering unusual mental depression because of separation from his family.

Graf, in prison since Aug. 3, had offered $10.3 million in bond in a 22-page appeal. His request for the quashing of a warrant that ordered his arrest and called him a risk for flight to avoid prosecution was rejected by a magistrate in Mannheim.

Now Graf’s application moves onto the state court in Mannheim, where a decision is expected in a few days.

Graf’s application for release has been vigorously opposed by state prosecutor Peter Wechsung, who argued that the charges involve serious, criminal tax evasion, and not simple mistakes, bad advice or standing by while others acted.