Graft Trial Begins for Italian Cardinal

The archbishop of Naples went on trial Saturday in a massive loan-sharking case, accused of appropriating a fortune in church funds.

Cardinal Michele Giordano is the highest-ranking church official in Italy to stand criminal trial.

At Saturday’s hearing, charges against six of the 19 defendants were dismissed, including those against the cardinal’s brother, Mario Lucio Giordano.

Prosecutors presented new evidence, including testimony from several witnesses and bank records, and the case was adjourned to July 3. They asked for dismissal on technical grounds and were expected to ask for new indictments.

The cardinal, a popular cleric known for his blasts against usury, has denied wrongdoing.