On July 27th, a meteoric criminal trial took place in a makeshift courtroom inside the Vatican Museum. More than ten clergymen and laypeople went on trial for alleged corruption and massive fraud unfolding within the walls of the holy city.
This trial is the first-ever in the church’s modern history, where a cardinal is investigated for financial crimes. Before the trial, in early July Pope Francis gave his approval for the Vatican prosecutor to proceed with the indictment for ten individuals, including Cardinal Becciu. The individuals were accused of extortion, abuse of power, fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. The indictment listed individuals ranging from low-ranking secretaries to cardinals. The trial includes an Italian woman who worked under Becciu and two brokers from Italy, Gianluigi Torzi and Raffaele Mincione. Roland. Toronto.
