Disgraced George Pell isn’t going anywhere just yet, as Vatican 'acknowledges' court decision

The Vatican has acknowledged an Australian court's decision to uphold George Pell's conviction on sexual abuse, but has avoided condemning the disgraced cardinal, saying he still has the right to another appeal.

Source: AAP

A statement was issued hours after Pell, the former Vatican finance minister, on Wednesday lost an appeal in Melbourne against his conviction for sexually abusing two 13-year-old choirboys.

A court sketch of Cardinal George Pell at the Supreme Court as he listens to the judgement. 

AAP

 

The decision means he will remain in prison for at least another three years.

"As the proceedings continue to develop, the Holy See recalls that the Cardinal has always maintained his innocence throughout the judicial process and that it is his right to appeal to the High Court," the statement said.

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