MELBOURNE, Australia - Cardinal George Pell’s trial on child abuse charges is probably the highest profile criminal case ever shrouded in secrecy by an Australian suppression order. Dalziel objected, saying Pell “was not a special case.” Richter eventually withdrew his application to prevent the suppression order being lifted. Bosland also found that around 200 suppression orders were made a year from 2008 and 2013 for often unclear reasons and unlimited periods. “We are taking action to ensure suppression orders are clear and only made when absolutely necessary,” Attorney General Martin Pakula said. Australian suppression orders have proven wanting in a digital media environment, particularly in cases that attract international interest.

Source: thestar February 26, 2019 05:03 UTC