’’He wanted me to be on trial, and I’m coming to the trial. I feel tranquil in my conscience,″ Cardinal Angelo Becciu, one of two defendants who attended the largely procedural, seven-hour session, told reporters afterward. Less than three months ago, it would have been impossible for a cardinal to be in the dock in the Vatican City State, which has its own justice system and even a jail. By 2018, the original investment was losing money, and the Vatican scrambled to find an exit strategy. Prosecutors allege she embezzled 575,000 euros in Vatican funds that Becciu had authorized for use as ransom to free Catholic hostages abroad.

Source: ABC News July 27, 2021 07:07 UTC