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Greek man who killed Brit mum in Crete 17 years ago finally jailed for murder

A Greek man has been found guilty of the murder of Scottish mum Jean Hanlon in Crete, and sentenced to 10 years in jail. He will not be named until all court proceedings and appeals have concluded

[Jean Hanlon went missing on Crete in March 2009]

Jean Hanlon went missing on Crete in March 2009

A Greek man has been sentenced to 10 years behind bars for the killing of Scottish mother Jean Hanlon in Crete 17 years ago.

The 55-year-old was found guilty at a hearing at Lassithi Mixed Assize Court on Friday, July 3. He cannot be identified until all legal proceedings and appeals are finalised. The court acknowledged his reduced culpability owing to mental health issues.

Despite his custodial sentence he has been freed while awaiting his appeal hearing in line with the Greek justice system. Jean's three sons were overcome with emotion as the judgment was delivered to the courtroom, reports the Daily Record.

[Scottish mother Jean Hanlon was killed in Crete 17 years ago]

Scottish mother Jean Hanlon was killed in Crete 17 years ago(Image: Universal News And Sport (Europe))

The remains of Jean Hanlon, from Dumfries, were discovered in waters off Crete's Heraklion on March 13, 2009, four days after she vanished during an evening out.

Her death was originally recorded as a drowning, but a subsequent post-mortem indicated wounds compatible with a fight. It revealed a fractured neck, perforated lung and smashed rib.

The Greek man, who was acquainted with Jean, had previously refuted her murder. On the opening day of testimony during the proceedings, Jean's three sons, who had travelled to Crete, listened to harrowing evidence from a pathologist regarding the trauma she endured before her death. The defendant maintained he was unaware of her demise until discovering it in the press.

[Jean's son Michael]

Jean's son Michael

However, following Jean's sons Michael, David and Robert's decision to employ a private investigator, a major development occurred in the case.

Using Jean's diary as a guide, Haris Flaskounis managed to befriend the prime suspect before obtaining crucial evidence that resulted in the prosecution.

The court was told how the defendant had retained a photograph of Jean for 17 years. When questioned by the prosecutor about why he had kept the image, he reportedly informed Lassithi Mixed Assize Court: "Why wouldn't I remember it well?".

[Private investigator Haris Fluskounis]

Private investigator Haris Fluskounis

The deliberations followed Jean's sons' battle spanning almost two decades to obtain justice for their mother. They provided heartbreaking testimony to the court, with Robert alleging his mum had been "bullied" by the defendant following the end of their relationship.

Testimony from a forensic pathologist who participated in a case review in 2019 allegedly informed the court that, while she had not personally examined Jean, Jean's death was probably caused by an incomplete tear of the brain stem.

The pathologist stated this was likely the result of a fatal strike to the rear of the neck using a blunt instrument, explaining that the mother's injuries were incompatible with a fall.

[Jean's three sons have fought for justice for their mum]

Jean's three sons have fought for justice for their mum(Image: PA)

Jean relocated to Crete in 2005 and was employed in bars and restaurants in the seaside resort of Kato Gouves. Michael had previously revealed to the Record how witnessing the trial finally commence was emotionally overwhelming for the family.

He said: "The anxiety is intense, not knowing what to expect. The fears of not getting justice. Will our mum finally be heard?

"The first part of the trial was incredibly hard. While being questioned by the judges and the public prosecutor, in addition to both lawyers for the prosecution and defence was extremely emotional, as we had to listen to the likely last moments of my mother.

"We wanted to give mum the best fight ever. So it was so important that we say the right things, not to miss anything, describe and convey to the court the real facts. I'm proud of us for how we spoke for our mum."

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