Ex-priest faces sex abuse charges in Italy

Rome, June 19 (IANS/AKI) A former priest has been indicted in Italy for sexually abusing 12 young men at a drug rehabilitation centre he had founded.

Pierino Gelmini, 85, has denied the charges. He left the priesthood two years ago to defend himself.

Gelmini was one of Italy’s most recognised priests when the accusations were made against him in 2007.

Nine men said he had sexually abused them while they were residents at his Comunita Incontro centre based in the central Umbrian town of Amelia. The number of accusers now stands at 12.

The Comunita Incontro now has drug rehabilitation centres worldwide and has enjoyed the support of powerful figures in Italian politics.

–IANS/AKI