Appeals court increases sentence for child abuse in Limassol

On Monday, May 18, 2026, the Appeals Court of Cyprus unanimously increased the prison sentence of a man convicted in 2023 by the Limassol Permanent Assize Court for the sexual abuse of his underage daughter. The defendant had originally been sentenced to six years of concurrent imprisonment for two charges. Following an appeal by the Attorney General, who argued that the initial sentence was manifestly inadequate, the Appeals Court increased the penalty to ten years of concurrent imprisonment for each charge. The court emphasized the seriousness of the offenses and the necessity for deterrent sentences to protect minors. The ruling noted that the original sentence failed to reflect the gravity of the crimes or the breach of the position of trust and influence held by the perpetrator. All previous court orders, including the defendant’s referral to the Supervision Authority, remain in effect. State Prosecutor Louiza Sigar represented the Attorney General's office during the proceedings.