Convicted of five attempted murders, he is released early under a presidential pardon

A man convicted of attempted murder, rape and drug-related offenses has left prison under the terms of a presidential pardon.

Charalambos Chrysanthou, known by the nickname “Hamburger,” has been released from prison early under a presidential pardon decision. His sentence was suspended with the consent of the attorney general and his deputy, despite the fact that under the verdict he was supposed to remain in custody until 2055.

Chrysanthou was sentenced to 35 years in prison for two sets of attempted murders. His criminal record also includes convictions for rape and offenses related to drug trafficking.

The pardon was granted on the condition that the convicted man leave the territory of the Republic of Cyprus. Until 2040, he is banned from entering areas under the control of the authorities of the Republic of Cyprus.

When delivering the sentence, the court described Chrysanthou as a “ruthless” man who showed “an incredible disregard for human life.” The decision to release him has already sparked public debate about the use of presidential pardons and the witness protection program.