Probe launched after 22 Greek gymnasts accuse coaches of decades of abuse

·

The head of the Athens Prosecutor’s Office has ordered an investigation into allegations of physical and verbal abuse, as well sexual harassment, made by 22 former athletes of rhythmic gymnastics against an unspecified number of coaches.

The probe is being launched against a backdrop of similar reports and lawsuits involving actors, directors and the country’s sailing federation.

READ MORE: Olympic gold medalist Sofia Bekatorou claims she was sexually assaulted by official.

The allegations were made in a letter sent to Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou, Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and later the sport’s federation. The athletes said that the incidents they described took place when they were young and training to become gymnasts.

READ MORE: ‘Time for acts to break inaction’: Greek PM introduces harsher punishments for sexual abuse.

Kathimerini understands that most of the complainants are athletes from Thessaloniki. The incidents date back to 1985 and, based on the allegations, included beatings, psychological abuse, corporal punishment and sexual harassment.

READ MORE: Ex-Artistic Director of Greece’s National Theater arrested, charged with rape.

The preliminary investigation will be conducted by prosecutor Apostolos Andreou.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘Una Faccia, Una Razza’: The politics of memory and the power of saying ‘OXI’

The annual homage to “OHI” Day stems from Greece's Prime Minister Metaxas firmly stating “OHI” (NO) to Mussolini's request.

The Master Miller and the art of olive oil perfection

The Master Miller’s mission has its roots in a philosophy that begins at the olive tree and reaches the heart of those who seek quality.

Brain regain: For the first time in 14 years, more people return to Greece than leave

For the first time in over a decade, Greece is witnessing a positive migration balance as more Greeks return home than emigrate.

When everyday Greeks said OXI: Resistance and survival during World War Two

“Aera!” (Air!) roared Greek soldiers as they clawed over jagged rocks on the brutal Pindus Mountains during Italy’s 1940 invasion.

Botanical Park of Crete: Rooted in fire, inspiring hope

The October 2003 fire started with electrical cables in a village near the Marinakis family’s olive groves.

You May Also Like

Australians of Greek heritage named finalists in Victorian Premier’s Design Awards

Finalists have been revealed for the Victorian Premier’s Design Awards and among the list are at least five Australians with Greek heritage.

Hellenics in South Australia: Sharing migration stories and photos of the days that were

They have shaped our history we have the responsibility to keep their stories alive for the generations to come," Doris Falidis Nickolas, author of the book ‘Life Has Two Doors’, tells The Greek Herald.

Manto Mavrogenous: The heroine who gave her soul and fortune for the Hellenic cause

Manto Mavrogenous was a dominant figure of the Greek Revolution of 1821. She devoted herself wholly to the ideals and the justnesses.