Greek Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis has announced plans for a stricter legal framework and heavy prison sentences to combat fraud targeting elderly people across Greece.
Speaking on the ERTnews television program Eftheos, Floridis said he is working in close cooperation with Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrysochoidis to draft the new measures after financial scams against older citizens evolved into a scourge.
Floridis stated that law enforcement officers must carry out continuous arrests to halt the criminal activity. He explained that perpetrators currently act because they believe the prospective financial benefit outweighs the likelihood of spending time in prison.
The Ministry of Justice sets penal policy and oversees the Greek judicial system, while the Ministry of Citizen Protection controls the Hellenic Police and public security. Financial fraud schemes aimed at senior citizens have emerged as a growing police challenge in Greece, with syndicates frequently targeting vulnerable residents through phone scams and deceptive house visits.
Emergency police alert system
To boost the operational capabilities of law enforcement, Floridis proposed introducing special immediate alert systems designed specifically for elderly residents. Under the proposed plan, police would receive an instant notification at the press of a button whenever an attempted fraud occurs.
Floridis clarified that government officials will examine the appropriate age limit to determine who qualifies for the direct alert device. He added that while authorities will refine how the system operates, the government is certain to move forward with tough penalties for convicted offenders.
ERTnews is the dedicated 24-hour news network operated by ERT, the national public broadcaster of Greece. The show Eftheos features interviews with top government ministers on pressing national topics, including public safety and judicial reform.
Heavy prison terms for repeat offenders
Floridis warned that perpetrators must understand the consequences of their actions if they fail to learn from prior incarcerations. He stated that if the situation continues, judicial authorities will move beyond basic jail sentences and turn to heavy felony prison terms.
Under Greek legal codes, criminal penalties are divided between lighter misdemeanor imprisonment and severe felony incarceration served in state penitentiaries. Shifting elderly fraud cases into felony categories ensures longer mandatory sentences without early relief options.
The joint initiative between the justice and citizen protection ministries will proceed as officials finalize the legal text and define technical specifications for the police alert network. Floridis said the government intends to establish a clear legal deterrent against organized fraud rings.
