New provision foresees pre-trial detention for repeat offenders

Defendants who commit a new criminal felony while under restrictive conditions will be taken to prison, according to an amendment to a provision that is being drafted by the Justice Ministry. 

According to the current criminal procedure code, the restrictive conditions imposed on defendants may be replaced by temporary detentions if they violate them, have committed preparatory acts to flee, fail to appear before an investigating judge or the court despite having been legally summoned and having no reasonable cause that makes it impossible for them to attend.

Kathimerini has learned that the Justice Ministry plans to amend the relevant provision so that in cases of new commission of serious crimes, the accused will be compulsorily remanded in custody.

Ministry sources say the aim is to address the repeated criminal behavior of defendants who do not hesitate to...