Greek Deputy Justice Minister Ioannis Bougas unveiled legal reforms on addressing youth violence by imposing tougher penalties for neglecting supervision of minors. The reforms focus on imposing stricter penalties under the penal code for minors and their guardians, amending civil law to ensure compensation for victims, and implementing stricter disciplinary measures in schools for rule violations.
The minimum sentence for neglect will be raised to one year for guardians and two years for parents, with a maximum penalty of five years. Parents and guardians of minors committing felonies will face fines starting at 10,000 euros. Minors under 12 are not legally responsible, while those aged 12-15 may undergo reformatory or therapeutic measures. Minors over 15 can face criminal charges up to misdemeanor level with potential sentences of up to five years in juvenile detention centers.
Bougas stressed that the reforms aim to bring reason to individual minor offenders rather than instill fear. The government is taking comprehensive steps to prevent escalating violent behaviors among the youth and protect society.
