Spanish cardinal cleared of 'hate crime' charge

June 23, 2016

A Spanish court has dismissed "hate crime" charges that were brought against Cardinal Antonio Cañizares Llovera of Valencia after he denounced gender theory. 

Several leftist organizations had filed complaints against the cardinal, saying that his words had incited hatred against homosexuals. Under the terms of Spanish law, the formal charges required authorities to investigate the incident. However, after a brief investigation, a magistrate concluded that Cardinal Cañizares was exercising his freedom of speech, and his words showed neither a "criminal intent" nor a call to "hatred and violence." The investigation was closed.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Spanish cardinal who denounced ‘gay empire’ cleared of hate speech (Crux)
• Spanish cardinal faces 'hate crime' charge for denouncing gender theory (CWN, 6/9)