Alexandros Giotopoulos, convicted leader of the militant Greek group November 17, was released from prison at the age of 82. He had been serving 17 life sentences for coordinating attacks that resulted in 23 deaths, including a C.I.A. officer. His release has upset many relatives of victims.
Greek TV highlighted footage showing Giotopoulos in Athens, following his release. His lawyer, Vasiliki Kamilari, stated that his advanced age and other factors led to his release.
In 2003, a court determined that Giotopoulos masterminded the attacks committed by November 17. This group was active in Greece between 1975 and 2002, engaging in bombings, assassinations, and bank robberies to support its operations. Victims included politicians, industrialists, and foreign officials like C.I.A. chief Richard Welch, killed in 1975. Giotopoulos has always denied leading or committing the murders.
“After 24 years of imprisonment, I am still awaiting an answer to the crucial question: ‘In what place did my moral instigation take place?’” Giotopoulos stated to Documento newspaper. “‘When did it happen? What was the weather like? Who was present? And what specific words were used to persuade the physical perpetrators?’”
In Greece, individuals serving multiple life sentences are typically released after around 25 years. Giotopoulos submitted several petitions for freedom before a judicial panel agreed, considering his age, declining health, and achievements in prison, such as postgraduate studies.