Doctor convicted for selling medical supplies
The Court of Appeal in Cyprus confirmed the conviction of a Nicosia General Hospital doctor who sold a medical valve meant to be free. He took €1,500 from the patient’s relatives before surgery. His wife, involved as an accomplice, also received a conviction for money laundering connected to the transaction.
Trial revealed secret cash payment
During the trial, the court found that the payment occurred in a parking area, in cash, and without receipts, raising questions about legality. The court rejected the doctor’s defence that he bought the valve as a backup for medical necessity, noting no evidence the spare existed or that hospital staff approved it.
Appeal focused on fair trial claims
At the Court of Appeal, the defendants argued that the trial violated their rights to a fair hearing. They cited alleged bias, the wording in the judgment, and insufficient preparation time. The court reviewed these claims under Cypriot law and European Court of Human Rights standards.
Court reduces sentences but upholds guilt
The appeal reduced the prison sentences but upheld the convictions:
- 32-month sentence for abuse of power cut to 18 months
- 28-month sentence for obtaining goods by false representations cut to 22 months
The court ruled that trial issues did not compromise fairness or invalidate the convictions.
Also read: Children at Makarios Hospital face ongoing disruption despite promises
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