AUSTRALIA
Radio Australia
Cardinal George Pell denies claims he tried to bribe David Ridsdale to be silent over uncle’s sexual abuse
Cardinal George Pell has denied claims he bribed the nephew of paedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale to stay quiet about the sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of his uncle.
David Ridsdale told the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse yesterday that in 1993 after being informed of the abuse Cardinal Pell asked him what it would take for him to stay quiet.
“George then began to talk about my growing family and my need to take care of their needs. He mentioned how I would soon have to buy a car or house for my family,” Mr Ridsdale said.
“I want to know what it will take to keep you quiet,” Mr Ridsdale quoted Cardinal Pell as saying.
In a statement released late on Wednesday, Cardinal Pell again denied those allegations.
“At no time did I attempt to bribe David Ridsdale or his family or offer any financial inducements for him to be silent,” the statement said.
“At the time of our discussion the police were already aware of allegations against Gerald Ridsdale and were investigating. Then, and now, I supported these police investigations.”
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