Paphos: Court of Appeal increases sentences for child rape

The Court of Appeal has taken the step of increasing the sentences of a man convicted of raping a child in 2019 in Paphos. This follows a ruling that the sentences initially handed down were "manifestly inadequate."

Consequently, the Court of Appeal has decided to consider an increase in the sentence on the charges of rape and sexual abuse of a child from six years to nine years, and on the charge of sexual abuse from five years to six years.

It is worth noting that the original sentences imposed on the convicted man by the Paphos Criminal Court were six years on each of the charges of rape, sexual abuse of a child, and indecent assault, and five years on the charge of corruption of a woman aged 13-17.

In reaching its decision, the Court of Appeal gave particular weight to a video taken by the defendant during the rape. This was taken into account in determining the appropriate sentence, which the Court increased from six years to nine years for the charges of rape and sexual abuse of a child, and from five years to six years for the charge of sexual assault.

In light of the circumstances, as outlined in the Court of Appeal's judgment, it is worth noting that the complainant resides in the United Kingdom and was on holiday with her family in Paphos at the time of the incident. In 2018, while she was staying with her aunt, she met the defendant, and they began to meet as a group. At that point, the defendant informed the complainant's aunt that he had developed feelings for the minor and wanted to pursue a relationship with her.

The aunt immediately informed the defendant that the complainant was 14 years old. It is alleged that the defendant accessed the complainant's social media accounts and sent her messages.

On two occasions in April 2018, the defendant inquired via Snapchat if he could have nude photos of the complainant, but she declined. The accused introduced himself to the complainant as a good friend, and she confided in him about her personal issues.