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Hairdresser's Appeal Rejected in Shocking Sexual Abuse Case Involving a 12-Year-Old and a Woman with Disabilities

Published January 22, 2026, 08:29

An Appeals Court in Cyprus has rejected the appeal of a man convicted of serious sexual offenses, including acts involving a 12-year-old victim. The man, who worked as a hairdresser, was charged with 17 offenses committed between June and July 2018, when the victim was 12 years old. According to the original court decision, the hairdresser forced the minor victim to participate in sexual acts with a woman suffering from intellectual disability, in a space above his barbershop. These acts were repeated and, in some cases, recorded. The defendant is alleged to have exploited his dependent relationship with the victim due to his employment at the barbershop, as well as the victim's age. He was also found guilty of possessing and distributing child pornography, and of exposing a minor to inappropriate content. The court noted that the 12-year prison sentence is severe but not excessive, given the seriousness of the offenses. Claims of cooperation and remorse by the convicted man were dismissed, as the court found attempts to obstruct justice. The Appeals Court's decision confirms the original conviction, ruling that there was no legal error in the sentencing. The case has caused shock in Cyprus due to the nature of the crimes and the age of the victim. The Appeals Court's decision sends a strong message against the sexual abuse of minors and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.