Man who gave evidence at trial asks for privacy: ‘I want to protect my young family’
The Guardian Australia

Media outside the county court in Melbourne, where Cardinal George Pell was found guilty of child sexual assault. His victim has released a statement. Photograph: David Crosling/AP
The man who was abused by Cardinal George Pell and gave evidence at his trial has released a statement, saying he has experienced “shame, loneliness, depression and struggle”, and pleading for anonymity.
A jury unanimously found Pell guilty on 11 December in Melbourne’s county court, but the result was subject to a suppression order and could not be reported until now.
After the order was lifted, the man’s lawyer, Viv Waller, released this statement from his client:
Thank you for your interest in this case.
Like many survivors I have experienced shame, loneliness, depression and struggle. Like many survivors it has taken me years to understand the impact on my life.
At some point we realise that we trusted someone we should have feared and we fear those genuine relationships that we should trust.
I would like to thank my family near and far for their support of me, and of each other.
I am a witness in a case brought by the State of Victoria. I have put my trust in the police and the criminal justice system.
The process has been stressful and it is not over yet.
I need space and time to cope with the ongoing criminal process.
I understand this is a big news story but please don’t reveal my identity.
I ask that the media respect my privacy. I don’t want to give any interviews. Please don’t come to my home. I want to protect my young family and my parents. I don’t want them swept into the spotlight.
I am not a spokesperson about child sexual abuse. There are many other survivors and advocates who bravely fill this role.
I am just a regular guy working to support and protect my family as best I can.
Thank you for your support and understanding.
___________________________________________
The Latest: Victim’s father to sue church over Pell abuse
The Toronto Star
Mon., Feb. 25, 2019
MELBOURNE, Australia – The Latest on the sex abuse case against Cardinal George Pell (all times local):