Critical Verdict Today: Appeals Court to Decide Sentences for Ten Convicted in Mati Fire Tragedy

A pivotal moment awaits as the Three-Member Appeals Court announces its decision on the sentences for the ten individuals convicted in the Mati fire tragedy. Following yesterday’s verdict, where judges identified the ten defendants as culpable for the deadly blaze, today’s ruling will focus on mitigating circumstances. The process will begin this morning with a proposal by Chief Prosecutor Stamatina Perimeni regarding the recognition of mitigating factors for some or all of the ten. After deliberation, the court will issue its decision, which will significantly influence the next phase of the trial concerning the severity of punishments based on each defendant’s role—whether leading or secondary—in the disaster. Mitigating factors could affect not only the measurement of penalties but also the execution of these sentences, potentially allowing for partial or complete suspension upon reasoned court decisions. Yesterday, defense attorneys for the ten requested that judges consider lawful behavior, lack of malicious intent, good conduct post-incident, and the unreasonable duration of the criminal proceedings, which were not attributable to the defendants. Notably, those found guilty include former firefighting officials, political figures, and a resident of Penteli, from whose property the fire originated. All accused from aerial services, including pilots, air traffic controllers, and coordinators, along with the then-manager of EMAK and all municipal defendants, were acquitted.