Presidential pardon granted to convict Charalambos Chrysanthou

Charalambos Chrysanthou, also known as 'Hamburger,' who was sentenced in 2020 to 35 years in prison for five attempted murders and rape, has received a presidential pardon. The Attorney General's Office confirmed the decision, stating it is a constitutional power used in exceptional cases, including witness protection requirements. Chrysanthou was enrolled in the Witness Protection Program to testify against individuals convicted of premeditated murder. The pardon does not annul his criminal convictions, but serves as part of a security arrangement requiring his departure from Cyprus. He was mandated to leave the country by July 1, 2026, and is prohibited from returning until 2040. Reports indicate he served his sentence outside of Central Prisons, initially held at a Nicosia police station. Authorities emphasized that the decision involved the President, the Attorney General, and the Assistant Attorney General, focusing on safety and judicial cooperation.