Retired police officer accused of poisoning stray cats in Thessaloniki

A retired police officer faces charges of poisoning eight stray cats with poisoned bait in the Ano Toumba area of Thessaloniki, Greece. Authorities also suspect him of attempting to poison a ninth cat. He was summoned to appear before an investigating judge and was released without bail, pending further investigation.

The suspect has been charged with serial poisoning of a companion animal, both completed and attempted, using a poisonous substance, a felony offense. The alleged incidents occurred between late February and early March of the previous year. The investigation began after a woman who cared for the stray animals filed a complaint.

Investigators identified the 57-year-old suspect after reviewing security camera footage that reportedly placed him in the vicinity where the deceased animals were found. According to the case file, he is accused of leaving a container with food, allegedly laced with a poisonous substance, at a specific location. During his testimony, the retired officer vehemently denied any involvement, calling the accusations baseless.

He reportedly argued that laboratory tests on the container did not yield any DNA evidence linking him to it. While admitting to being in the area during the relevant period, both on foot and by motorcycle, he claimed his movements were related to delivering meals to a close acquaintance. He also mentioned visiting a Mount Athos hermitage in the same area, where monks stay when they are off the Holy Mountain, and with whom he maintains contact.

Sources indicate that the surviving cat received special treatment from a veterinarian for poisoning, strengthening the theory that poisonous substances were used. The results of specialized tests on the deceased cats are still pending from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki's Veterinary Laboratory. A significant administrative fine of 60,000 euros has also been imposed on the suspect, against which he has appealed.