AUSTRALIA
Telegraph (UK)
Jonathan Pearlman, in melbourne
26 JULY 2017
Cardinal George Pell, one of the most powerful figures in the Vatican and Australia’s most senior Catholic, appeared in court to face historic sex assault offences and declared he was “not guilty” despite not yet being required to enter a plea.
Greeted by a mix of jeers and applause, Cardinal Pell, who has returned from the Vatican to try to clear his name, appeared tired but assured as he entered Melbourne Magistrates Court, which was packed with journalists and onlookers.
Wearing his clerical collar, Cardinal Pell did not speak during the six-minute hearing.
“For the avoidance of doubt and because of the interest might I indicate that Cardinal Pell pleads not guilty to all charges and will maintain his presumed innocence that he has,” Mr Richter told the court.
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