Cyprus police chief Themistos Arnaoutis investigated over 2019 teen suicide

Cyprus Police Chief Themistos Arnaoutis was investigated for possible neglect of duty in connection with the 2019 suicide of 15‑year‑old Stylianos Constantinou. Independent investigators appointed in 2019 concluded that Arnaoutis may have failed to act on a domestic‑violence complaint lodged by the victim’s mother in March 2013, which should have triggered a police investigation under a 2007 circular.

During a 2020 investigative deposition, Arnaoutis declined to answer 31 of 32 questions and only responded to the final question, denying any responsibility. The investigators recommended prosecution of 15 officers, but only a 58‑year‑old sergeant faces charges. The Attorney General ultimately decided not to prosecute Arnaoutis, and the case remains ongoing for other defendants.

Arnaoutis has publicly denied responsibility for the teen’s death, asserting that the questioning lacked proper references to the specific case. The hearing highlighted concerns about police handling of domestic‑violence reports and its possible link to the tragic outcome.