Limassol psychologist convicted of sexual abuse of a minor patient

On Wednesday, the Limassol Criminal Court found a psychologist guilty of four counts of sexual abuse involving a teenage patient. The victim was approximately 17 and a half years old at the time of the offences, which occurred during private sessions held at the defendant's home office. The court ruled that the psychologist abused his position of trust and influence over the complainant, who was emotionally vulnerable and reliant on him for support. Charges were brought under the Prevention and Combating of Sexual Abuse, Sexual Exploitation of Children and Child Pornography Law and the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence Law. The prosecution presented nine witnesses, while the defence called three witnesses. The defendant testified under oath, denying the claims, but was found to have engaged in inappropriate physical contact and the exposure of the victim to sexually explicit material. The court has remanded the defendant in custody. A hearing for sentencing submissions is scheduled for early June.