Pope Leo XIV Affirms Non-Interference in Cardinal Becciu's Ongoing Appeal

Pope Leo XIV Upholds Judicial Independence in High-Profile Case

Pope Leo XIV has publicly affirmed his stance of non-interference in the ongoing court case of Cardinal Angelo Becciu, who was convicted of financial malfeasance. The pontiff's declaration, made approximately one week after the commencement of Becciu's appeal hearing on September 22, 2025, underscores a commitment to the independence of the Vatican's judicial processes.

Pontiff's Clear Statement on Becciu Trial

Responding to a journalist's inquiry outside Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV stated unequivocally that 'the trial must go forward' and that he has 'no intention of interfering' in the legal proceedings. This statement comes from the Pope who was elected on May 8, 2025, succeeding Pope Francis, and is known as the first American Pope, born Robert Francis Prevost.

Background of Cardinal Becciu's Conviction and Appeal

Cardinal Angelo Becciu, a former deputy Vatican secretary of state, was found guilty in December 2023 by a Vatican court. He received a sentence of five years and six months in prison, an €8,000 fine, and a perpetual disqualification from holding public office. The charges against him included:

• Embezzlement
• Abuse of office
• Witness tampering

The core of the trial revolved around a controversial €350 million London property deal, initiated in 2014, which resulted in significant financial losses for the Vatican. Additionally, Becciu was found guilty of unauthorized payments totaling €125,000 to a charity run by his brother in Sardinia and approving over €500,000 to a geopolitical expert, Cecilia Marogna, for a humanitarian mission that prosecutors alleged was misused for luxury goods and travel. Throughout the initial trial and subsequent appeal, Cardinal Becciu has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting that he acted with papal approval or authority.

Implications for Vatican Transparency and Justice

The trial of Cardinal Becciu marked a historic moment as the first criminal trial of a cardinal in a Vatican court. It has been viewed as a significant test of the financial reforms initiated by Pope Francis, aiming to enhance transparency within the Holy See's financial operations. Pope Leo XIV's commitment to allowing the judicial process to proceed without intervention reinforces the Vatican's stated dedication to accountability and due process, particularly in high-profile cases involving senior clergy.