A sexual abuse case in Limassol has ended with the Permanent Criminal Court finding a psychologist guilty of multiple charges involving the sexual abuse of a minor patient under his care.
The sexual abuse case involved an underage girl, aged around 17.5 at the time of the offences, who was receiving therapy sessions from the accused psychologist.
The court ruled that the defendant abused his position of trust and authority over the victim.
Abuse of trust in therapeutic relationship
According to the court’s findings, the sexual abuse case centred on the exploitation of a professional therapeutic relationship.
The psychologist met the victim in sessions held at his office, located within his residence. The court heard that he built trust over time, during which the victim experienced emotional vulnerability and relied heavily on him for support.
The ruling stated that he used this position of influence to manipulate and abuse the complainant.
Details of the offences examined in court
The sexual abuse case included four separate charges of sexual misconduct.
The court found that the accused engaged in inappropriate physical contact and exposed the victim to sexually explicit material during a meeting at his home.
Prosecutors presented testimony from nine witnesses, while the defence called three witnesses in support of the accused.
Victim’s vulnerability and manipulation
The court noted that the victim initially showed signs of emotional distress and low self-confidence before beginning therapy.
Over time, she developed trust in the psychologist, who encouraged dependence through personal remarks and inappropriate guidance, the judgment stated.
The sexual abuse case highlighted how this trust was ultimately exploited, leading to the offences for which the defendant was convicted.
Court decision and next steps
The Criminal Court found the accused guilty on all four charges.
He remains in custody until the next hearing, scheduled for early June, when legal arguments will be presented regarding sentencing.
The sexual abuse case has been adjourned for mitigation submissions ahead of final sentencing.
Also read: Phedonos case adjourned over judge exemption request
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