Significant developments occurred in the trial concerning the 2019 suicide of 15-year-old Stylianos, a case that revealed in the worst possible way major gaps in the prevention and handling of child abuse cases in Cyprus. Investigations showed failures by both Social Welfare Services and the police to properly respond to warnings and protect the teenager, who had displayed psychological distress from an early age following years of violence in his home.
During the Wednesday session at the Nicosia District Court, two defendants changed their initial responses to the charges against them and admitted some of the charges. Reports indicate that a third defendant listed in the case intends to admit to some or all of the charges at a future hearing.
According to the order of the charge sheet, the fifth defendant admitted to three of the charges she faced, while the seventh defendant, a former Social Welfare Services officer, also admitted to charges. The third defendant will clarify whether she will admit to charges at the next hearing, depending on guidance from the Legal Service.
The court scheduled a new hearing for February 25, when it is expected to provide further instructions regarding the defendants who changed their pleas.
The case centers on Stylianos’ parents, who face serious charges. Investigations revealed that the father, who ran a livestock unit in Kotsiatis, allegedly inflicted both physical and psychological abuse on Stylianos and his mother. The mother is accused of failing to report instances of abuse.
The full charge sheet includes over 200 charges. The first section concerns the 55-year-old father and 48-year-old mother, while the second section concerns Social Welfare officials, including social workers and coordinators, who are accused of neglecting their official duties.
The father faces charges including physical and psychological abuse, common assault, and subjecting a person to cruel and inhuman treatment. The mother faces charges including failing to report abuse as required by law.
A 58-year-old police sergeant is also implicated, as Stylianos’ mother had previously reported abuse and expressed fear for her life. Complaints included allegations that Stylianos’ father physically harmed the teenager. On May 13, 2019, Stylianos threatened to take his own life. Four months later, he died tragically, and his death was initially classified as unnatural.
A criminal investigation was conducted by independent investigators Modestos Pogiatzis and Andreas Andreou, who recommended prosecution against the individuals involved.
Stylianos’ death exposed serious shortcomings in both Social Welfare Services and the Cyprus Police. Teachers had identified the teenager’s psychological issues early and attempted interventions, but there was a lack of proper risk assessment and coordination. Social Welfare Services failed to act effectively, and police officers did not properly respond to domestic abuse complaints.
The trial involves 11 defendants, including Stylianos’ parents and Social Welfare officials. Alleged offences occurred between 2008 and 2019. The case is ongoing, and public attention remains high due to the tragedy’s social significance and the systemic failures it exposed.