Cardinal George Pell reaches Australia to face sexual abuse charges

Sydney [Australia], Jul 10 (ANI): Australia's highest-ranking Catholic, Cardinal George Pell on Monday arrived here to face sexual abuse charges framed against him in Melbourne later this month.

Pell landed Sydney early in the morning after flying from the Vatican via Singapore, reported the Guardian.

The 76-year old, who was a former Melbourne and Sydney archbishop and Ballarat priest, was charged with multiple sexual offences by the Victoria police on June 30.

Pell will face a Melbourne court on July 26 for a preliminary hearing related to offences he reportedly committed decades ago.

The Australia's most senior Catholic in his defence said he is innocent and is looking forward to fight the charges against him in court.

Pell, who is top adviser to Pope Francis, has taken leave as the Vatican's financial chief to fight the charges.

"There has been relentless character assassination. I'm looking forward, finally, to having my day in court," he told reporters in Rome after the charges were made. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI