Greek actor Petros Filippidis has been unanimously found guilty by the Athens Mixed Jury Court of two counts of attempted rape. The court also rejected all mitigating circumstances, following a months-long trial that examined allegations dating back to 2010 and 2014.
Despite requests from the defence to recognise mitigating factors – namely his previously lawful life and later good behaviour – the court sided with the prosecution and denied any leniency, with the decision to exclude mitigating circumstances also reached unanimously.
The verdict and sentence
Filippidis was sentenced to three years in prison with a three-year suspension, meaning he will not serve jail time unless he reoffends. The decision was passed by a 4-3 majority. The minority opinion favoured a heavier sentence: four years for the first attempt and two for the second.
The actor was convicted of attempting to rape two actresses:
- First incident (2010): In his dressing room at the “Mousouri” Theatre, where one actress had gone to discuss a potential role.
- Second incident (2014): In his car, after a professional meeting, where he allegedly locked the doors and drove her to a dead-end street in Psychiko.
Both women testified in emotionally charged court sessions, recounting how Filippidis ignored their pleas to stop. One of them described the accused as unable to understand the word “no.”
Prosecution’s Position
Prosecutor Andreas Karaflos had recommended acquittal due to “numerous doubts,” arguing that the allegations lacked forensic evidence and relied solely on two testimonies, which he claimed had “evidentiary cracks.” He insisted Filippidis showed no intent to rape and suggested his behaviour constituted a misdemeanour, referring to him as a “rapist for laughs.”
The prosecutor also criticised the victims for not reporting the incidents to police at the time, interpreting this as an indication they “did not consider the events serious.”
Trial details
The court heard testimony from dozens of prominent figures in the Greek theatre world. Some witnesses supported the actresses, describing a “dark side” to Filippidis, citing violent outbursts and inappropriate sexual behaviour. Others, equally respected, defended him, dismissing the allegations as career-driven or orchestrated attempts to shift influence and resources in the theatrical industry.
Filippidis’ defence and reaction
In his testimony, Filippidis claimed the charges would be the “bullet that ends me,” acknowledging the possibility of returning to prison, where he had already spent 12 months in pretrial detention.
The court’s final verdict contradicts the prosecutor’s recommendation, underscoring a broader judicial rejection of the leniency request, despite the prosecution’s support for two mitigating factors.
The ruling marks a significant moment in Greece’s evolving stance on accountability for sexual misconduct, particularly within high-profile cultural sectors.
Also read: Eirine Mourtzoukou jailed in Korydallos with Pispirigkou
Source: Skai
