Phedonos complainant faces second hearing of cross-examination in closed-door trial

Paphos, Cyprus. Defence lawyers on Thursday continued cross-examining the woman who accuses furloughed Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos of rape. It was the second successive hearing devoted to questioning her by his legal team.

Proceedings held in private

The complainant had previously given testimony over two hearings. While she testified, Phedonos remained outside the courtroom in a neighbouring room within the court complex.

Related: Cross-examination of complainant ends in trial of suspended Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos

RelatedCross-examination of complainant ends in trial of suspended Paphos mayor Phedonas Phedonos

His lawyers, Christos Pourgourides and Nondas Korakidis, are conducting the cross-examination. Media reports indicate that their questioning is expected to resume when Paphos criminal court next sits on October 27.

The proceedings are closed to the public.

Five charges denied

Phedonos has entered not-guilty pleas to each of the five separate charges against him. These concern rape; indecent assault on a woman; indecent assault on a woman through another, non-physical act; assault resulting in actual bodily harm; and administering a substance or drug to someone with the intention of making that person incapable of resistance.

Court to assess prosecution evidence

After every prosecution witness has testified, the court will evaluate the evidence and determine whether the defendant has a prima facie case to answer.

A finding that no such case exists could result in his acquittal at that point. Otherwise, Phedonos will be called upon to present his defence by calling witnesses, although he has no legal obligation to testify himself.