Newsroom
A British father facing criminal charges over the death of his 3-year-old child will be allowed to leave Cyprus temporarily so he can attend the child’s funeral in the United Kingdom.
The Paphos District Court approved the 37-year-old’s request on humanitarian grounds, temporarily lifting travel restrictions that would normally prevent him from leaving the island while his case is pending.
He is accused of causing his child’s death through a reckless or dangerous act. He has not yet entered a plea.
His lawyer, Alexandros Alexandrou, told the court that the journey was necessary not only for the funeral but also because the father must handle official matters in Britain as the child’s legal guardian.
The prosecution did not object to the request.
Under the court’s decision, the man may travel between Aug. 7 and Sept. 14. His travel documents will be returned two days before his departure so he can make the necessary arrangements.
His name will also be temporarily removed from the list of people prohibited from leaving Cyprus, and he will not have to report to Paphos police while he is abroad.
However, the court required an additional €10,000 cash guarantee as security that he will return and continue facing the proceedings against him.
Prosecutor Chryso Perganti also asked the man to provide police with written details of where he will stay in Britain and how authorities can contact him.
All his original restrictions will automatically return on Sept. 15. Those conditions include a €20,000 financial guarantee, surrendering his travel documents, reporting to Paphos Central Police Station once a week, and remaining on the no-exit list.
He is also prohibited from crossing through Cyprus’ checkpoints and must keep police informed of his home address.
The next hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Sept. 17, when the father is expected to say whether he admits or denies the charge.
His lawyer asked for the plea to be taken at that hearing, allowing the defense time to receive and examine all the evidence gathered in the case.
The 37-year-old attended Monday’s proceedings with his parents and lawyer. He must be back in Cyprus and complying with all his original restrictions before returning to court.
