A father and son have been charged with prostituting the son's ex-girlfriend, who he was in a relationship with for seven years.

Christian Cucciardi, 31, from Zebbug and his father Saviour Cucciardi,51 from Ta' Xbiex were accused of profiting from prostitution, threatening the woman and slightly injuring her.

Christian Cucciardi was also charged with forcing his ex-girlfriend into prostitution.

They both denied the charges.

Defence lawyers Paul Borg and Clint Tabone said the woman had been "hassling" her ex-boyfriend for a while.

Inspectors Paula Ciantar and Darren Buhagiar prosecuted.

Magistrate Franceso Depasquale presided.