Trial of Irini Mourtzoukou resumes in Patras

The trial of 26-year-old Irini Mourtzoukou resumes today at the Patras Courthouse under heavy security measures. Mourtzoukou stands accused of the murders of three children, crimes to which she has confessed over the past two and a half years. The proceedings had been adjourned last week following instances of tension within the courtroom.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with approximately 80 to 81 witnesses expected to testify. Although the defendant has also confessed to the 2014 murder of her sister, this specific charge has been statute-barred due to the passage of time. During last week's session, the defendant reportedly appeared agitated and repeatedly requested the presence of her stepfather. The stepfather, who has been accused by Mourtzoukou of past abusive behavior, was not present in the courtroom, having instead filed a legal request to support the prosecution against her through his lawyer.

In addition to the courtroom proceedings, the defendant requested a brief personal meeting with her mother, with whom she shares a complex and strained relationship. Security remains high both inside and outside the courthouse to prevent potential unrest. The legal process is expected to continue with witness testimonies scheduled to determine the outcome of the case.