Thessaloniki: Martial Arts Coach Convicted of Sexually Abusing Minor Athlete

A 32-year-old martial arts coach from Thessaloniki has been sent to prison, accused of sexually abusing his 14-year-old student. The investigation began last summer following anonymous reports received by the ‘Child’s Smile’ organization and was taken up by the Thessaloniki Juvenile Protection Department. During preliminary investigations, the minor was examined in the presence of a child psychologist, where she allegedly admitted to having a sexual relationship with her coach, claiming it was consensual. This was reiterated during her testimony before the examining magistrate who handled the case. However, the 32-year-old denied all charges during questioning, asserting that nothing inappropriate occurred between them. According to sources, he claimed the allegations made by the 14-year-old were products of her imagination.