NEW YORK – When the sexual assault case against Dominique Strauss-Kahn began, his accuser and prosecutors were natural allies. Less than two months later, the relationship has crumbled into tension, with each side feeling betrayed.

Prosecutors have publicly said the woman has a history of lying that has seriously weakened the case. Her lawyer has called the district attorney lily-livered, says prosecutors have scurrilously discredited the woman and is calling for a special prosecutor.