Pope seen ready to pardon Gabriele of 'Vatileaks' conviction
November 08, 2012
The special commission of cardinals appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to investigate the “Vatileaks” scandal has made a recommendation in favor of a papal pardon for Paolo Gabriele, according to the ANSA news agency.
Gabriele, the Pope’s former valet, was convicted by a Vatican tribunal on October 6 and sentences to an 18-month prison term for the theft of confidential papal documents. When Gabriele began formally serving that sentence on October 25, Vatican officials openly discussed the possibility of a papal pardon.
Pope Benedict has already shown a disposition to forgive Gabriele, an Italian reporter has revealed. Antonio Socci of Libero disclosed that the Pope sent his former valet an autographed copy of one of his books, with his blessing. The papal gift was made after Gabriele wrote to the Pontiff expressing his sorrow for having betrayed his confidence.
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Further information:
- Cardinals' committee gives green light for butler pardon (ANSA)
- The Pope’s gesture of forgiveness towards Paolo Gabriele (Vatican Insider)
- Sentence formal, Gabriele begins 18-month prison sentence (CWN, 10/25)
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