Cardinal Pell Arrives at Court

By Danielle Pope

Cardinal Pell Arrives at Court
The Cardinal is in Melbourne to fight against sex offence allegations

MiNDFOOD Update

After only a short administrative hearing, the lawyer for Cardinal Pell has confirmed that his client intends to plead not guilty to all charges put before him.

Cardinal Pell is being represented by top criminal barrister, Robert Richter QC, who told the court that his client is maintaining his innocence. “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,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prosecutor Andrew Tinney SC has warned the media that the sub judice period had started, and therefore what was discussed in court was subject to legal proceedings. “All reports should be limited to fair and accurate reports of the proceeding,” he said.

The brief of evidence will be served on Pell’s legal team by September 8, but Pell will not have to reappear in court until October.

Protesters and members of the media stand outside the Melbourne Magistrates Court waiting for Vatican Treasurer Cardinal George Pell to leave in Australia, July 26, 2017. REUTERS/Mark Dadswell

Pell Arrives at Court Amid Media and Protest Frenzy

Cardinal George Pell has arrived at the Melbourne Magistrates Court to face historical sex offence charges. The Cardinal was met with protesters and a huge media pack as his made his first court appearance. He declined to answer any questions posed by media as he entered the building.

Cardinal Pell proceeded through security with a police throng surrounding him.

Security has been stepped up outside the court, with guards standing in front of the main doors.

The nature of the charges being faced by Cardinal Pell have not yet been revealed. It is only known that there are multiple charges relating to multiple complainants.

The court appearance today will be a short administrative hearing, where the Cardinal’s lawyers and prosecutors will outline a timetable for the case and the date of his next court appearance.

More on this story as it unfolds.

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