Court rejects ex-minister’s early release request
An Athens appeals court on Thursday unanimously rejected a request for early release filed by former Defense Minister Akis Tsochatzopoulos.
The request was tabled on Wednesday by the ex-minister’s lawyer during an appeal of a 20-year-old prison sentence handed to Tsochatzopoulos, 77, after he was found guilty of money laundering in connection to kickbacks he is alleged to have received from defense deals.
In his request the former minister had cited his advanced age as well as health issues.
A prosecutor told the court Thursday that Tsochatzopoulos could commit new money laundering activities if released. She also noted that the health issues raised by the former minister could be treated in prison.