Vatican appeals court declares mistrial in ‘trial of the century’ against cardinal

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 3 min read 100% complete by By NICOLE WINFIELDMarch 17, 2026 at 03:23 PM

AI Summary

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The Vatican appeals tribunal declared a mistrial in the high-profile financial crimes trial involving Cardinal Angelo Becciu and others, citing procedural errors made by both Pope Francis and Vatican prosecutors. The ruling nullifies the original indictment, requiring a new trial set to begin on June 22. The case centered on the Vatican's 350 million euro investment in a London property, with allegations that brokers and Vatican officials defrauded the Holy See. Defense lawyers argued that prosecutors withheld evidence and that secret decrees signed by Pope Francis violated the defendants' right to a fair trial, arguments the appeals court agreed with. The initial trial resulted in convictions for Becciu and eight others on charges including embezzlement and fraud, all of whom maintained their innocence and appealed.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Rome 40% London 40% Holy See ×475% Vatican ×780% Angelo Becciu ×485% Pope Francis ×490%

Keywords

mistrial 100% vatican 90% financial crimes 80% procedural errors 70% defense lawyers 60% prosecutors 60% embezzlement 50% fair trial 50% angelo becciu 50% london property 40%