Vatican tribunal for Archbishop

An archbishop wanted in the Dominican Republic in relation to serious sexual allegations will be investigated by two Vatican tribunals after Vatican City State refused to extradite him.

Polish Archbishop Josef Wesolowski  was recalled by Rome on August 21 from his post as Apostolic Nuncio to the Dominican Republic after the Archbishop of Santo Domingo, Cardinal Nicolas de Jesus Lopez made Rome aware of allegations against him of abuse of teenage boys. The islandís prosecutor subsequently confirmed a criminal investigation. When Polish authorities then launched their own investigation, the Vatican stated that, as a citizen of Vatican City State, the prelate would not be extradited, while, in his role as ambassador, he has diplomatic immunity.

However, Vatican spokesman, Fr Federico Lombardi revealed last weekend that Archbishop Wesolowski now faces two tribunals in relation to the allegations and denied that the Vatican is protecting him.