The trial in Portugal of the six men and a woman accused of the sexual abuse of children while in state care is drawing to a close.

The scandal of the alleged paedophile ring that operated at the Casa Pia children’s home over a long period broke in 2002, when a victim’s mother complained of abuse by staff at Casa Pia. Many of those involved believe justice is close to being done, after a four year process. Those on trial are well connected and include a diplomat, a TV presenter , a doctor, a lawyer and a woman in whose house the alleged abuse took place. Only one of the accused, the former Casa Pia driver, himself assaulted while a resident of the home, has admitted the charges. The extent of the scandal rocked Portugal with officials estimating that as many as 100 poor and under-age orphans suffered abuse. The verdicts are expected in January.More about: Portugal

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