Vatican Finance Chief to Face Trial in Australia on Sexual Abuse Charges

Vatican Finance Chief to Face Trial in Australia on Sexual Abuse Charges
Vatican Treasurer Cardinal George Pell is surrounded by Australian police as he leaves the Melbourne Magistrates Court in Australia, Oct. 6, 2017. REUTERS/Mark Dadswell
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MELBOURNE—Vatican Treasurer George Pell must face trial on charges of historical sexual offenses, an Australian court ruled on Tuesday, making him the most senior Catholic official to be tried on such allegations. He pleaded not guilty.

Magistrate Belinda Wallington handed down her decision that Pell’s case will proceed to trial in a Melbourne court, following a month-long pre-trial hearing.