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Pell pleads not guilty

Cardinal Pell made his first appearance in court today.

Cardinal George Pell has pleaded not guilty for sexual offences before the Melbourne Magistrate’s Court Wednesday morning. 

The eight-minute court appearance marked Cardinal Pell’s first as the highest-ranking Catholic official to be charged with allegations of sexual offences.

Details surrounding the charges have not yet been made public.

Crowds of vocal journalists and protesters stood by as the 76-year-old, alongside his high-profile criminal barrister Robert Richter, QC, and defence lawyer Paul Galbally, was escorted by a dozen police into the court

“For the avoidance of doubt… Cardinal Pell will plead not guilty to all charges, and will maintain the presumed innocence that he has,” Mr Richter said in court.

Three female supporters clapped, and let out a cheer, as Cardinal Pell made his way through the watching crowd.

The courtroom was predominantly filled with media personnel.

Journalists began lining up outside the court at 5 am to secure their position in the court.

The court appearance is a milestone for the case against the Catholic Church, which has been awash with allegations of sexual abuse.

Prior to today’s appearance, Cardinal Pell, who has taken leave of absence as the Vatican treasurer, had appeared before the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Abuse three times, once in person and twice via video-link from Rome.

Cardinal Pell was charged last month by Victoria Police detectives based on multiple allegations, and was granted leave from his Vatican duties by Pope Francis.

Cardinal Pell will return to court on 9 October.

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