Eighty-Six-Year-Old Priest’s Trial Ends Without Verdict | Sydney News

An 86-year-old former Catholic priest, Neville Creen, walked free from court after a jury deadlocked on charges of child abuse dating back to the 1970s and 80s — but the legal battle isn’t over. Accused of sexually assaulting a boy aged 10-11 in a church back room, Creen denied everything, claiming he never knew the victim. The complainant testified behind a screen, while the defense argued memories fade and no corroborating evidence exists. With no verdict reached, the judge discharged the jury — and the case will return next week. This haunting case underscores the brutal challenges of prosecuting decades-old abuse claims when time, trauma, and lack of proof collide. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1070f56640235e32