A Cypriot police officer received a fine and a driving ban for a fatal accident

The Larnaca District Court has delivered a verdict against a 39-year-old police officer found guilty in a fatal traffic accident. The incident, which occurred 2.5 years ago, resulted in the death of an elderly Frenchman.

The accident took place on January 16, 2022, during an operation by the YKAN narcotics unit, where the accused officer was serving at the time. According to case materials, the defendant was driving a police vehicle on the Agia Anna-Pseuda road and struck a man attempting to cross the road.

The victim of the accident was 70-year-old Alain Merhege from France, a permanent resident of Cyprus who was walking his dog at the time.

Shortly before the incident, the victim's daughter and wife had crossed the road. They stated that the driver was traveling at a high speed.

The injured man was taken to the hospital with severe injuries and passed away several days later. Following the hearing, the 39-year-old police officer was found guilty of causing death due to negligent, reckless, or thoughtless action, which carries a penalty of up to four years' imprisonment.

The Larnaca District Court sentenced the defendant to a fine of 2,500 euros, six penalty points, and a one-month driving ban, effective from today.