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Strauss-Khan, With Security In Tow, Leaves TriBeCa Townhouse For Doctor's Visit

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Dominique Strauss-Kahn is on the move again. He left his luxurious townhouse Friday morning.

CBS 2's Dave Carlin obtained exclusive video outside the office of an Upper East Side cardiologist. Strauss-Kahn went in, followed closely by his wife, Anne Sinclair.

The outing began at 7:30 a.m., with security officers along for the ride from 153 Franklin St. uptown to 407 East 70th St., the office of cardiologist Dr. David Blumenthal, who opened up for this one appointment only. Sources told Carlin that Strauss-Kahn went for a "routine" check up.

Tribeca neighbors were unaware that the former head of the International Monetary Fund was on the move.

"Generally house arrest would be confined to the house sounds like, but I guess not," Grace Ashford said.

"He's tagged isn't he? It's not like he's going to get anywhere," Patrick Syms added.

Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Mastro said although you can't see it on the video Strauss-Kahn is never without his ankle bracelet for non-stop monitoring. Trips away from the townhouse must be approved on a case-by-case basis.

"Anywhere he goes he's followed by the security force," Randy Mastro said. "It does require going back to the court and the court officers supervising your release conditions."

When asked if Strauss-Kahn would be permitted to get a cup of coffee or lunch, Mastro said, "Typically only leaving his home confinement for the particular purposes for which he is released."

Mastro said Strauss-Kahn's trips to the doctor, however routine, could be used over time by his legal team to help his case.

"If the stress were having manifestations it could make him more sympathetic to the public," Mastro said.

Strauss-Kahn's house arrest will run him $50,000 a month in rent alone, which gets him a roof deck, exercise room, and even a movie theater. He is allowed visitors other than family, but no more than four at a time.

Meanwhile, his accuser is lawyering up even more with extra attorneys for a team anticipating strong attacks on the alleged victim's character, reputation and credibility.

WCBS 880's Irene Cornell reports: Strauss-Khan Defense Irate Over Supposed Leaks

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Strauss-Kahn will be arraigned on June 6 on charges that he attempted to rape the hotel employee on May 14 at the swanky Sofitel New York.

The case has unleashed a swarm of sometimes minute-to-minute reporting by a fiercely competitive international media presence.

Tour groups are also starting to stop by to see where the ex-IMF head is staying. Getty reported a group of French tourists took part of a guided walking tour to see where Strauss-Khan is being held under house arrest.

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