UPDATE: Cardinal Pell says he's innocent; Vatican describes news of conviction as 'painful'
Frances D'Emilio, The Associated PressVATICAN CITY -- The Vatican on Tuesday described as "painful" the news of the conviction in Australia of Cardinal George Pell, one of Pope Francis' most trusted aides and advisers, for molesting two choirboys in the 1990s, but insisted the prelate has the right to defend himself until the appeals process is completed.
The conviction of Pell, who had been appointed by Francis to be the Vatican's treasurer, risks further staining the pontiff's already spotty record on cracking down on credibly accused clergy and over transparency on church handling of high-profile cases. "In order to ensure the course of justice, the Holy Father has confirmed the precautionary measures which had been imposed by the local Ordinary on Cardinal George Pell when he returned to Australia," Gisotti said.
The verdict represented "painful news that, as we are well aware, has shocked many people, not only in Australia," Gisotti said, adding that the Vatican is awaiting "the outcome of the appeals process, recalling that Cardinal Pell maintains his innocence and has the right to defend himself until the last stage of appeal."
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