'Vatileaks' investigation nearing conclusion

July 12, 2012

The Vatican’s investigation into the release of confidential papal documents is nearing its conclusion, and Paolo Gabriele, who was arrested in May on charges of stealing secret documents, will soon face “formal interrogation.”

The special commission of three cardinals set up by Pope Benedict XVI to investigate the leaks will submit its findings to the Pontiff next week, Father Federico Lombardi told reporters at a July 12 briefing. The commission, chaired by Cardinal Julian Herranz, has taken evidence from a number of Vatican officials about the leaked documents.

To date Gabriele, who was the Pope’s valet, is the only man facing charges in the “Vatileaks” case. He was arrested on May 23 as the result of a separate investigation by the Vatican gendarmerie. Father Lombardi reported that Gabriele remains in custody in a secure room at the Vatican. He has been interviewed informally, but more formal questioning by a Vatican magistrate will begin soon and likely be concluded by early in August. At that point the magistrate must decide whether to move forward with a criminal trial.

Vatican officials have revealed little information about the investigation into the leaks, and the report of the special commission of cardinals is not likely to be made public.

 

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Further information:

• Investigation into release of confidential documents concluding soon (Vatican Radio)
• Pope's butler to stay behind bars 'for another few days' (ANSA)