The capture of Filippos Leventos, an alleged serial pedophile in the Peristeri district of west Athens, has opened a malodorous “can of worms” for the Greek police. According to Proto Thema’s data, more than 968 people have been accused of child molestation from 2003 through to 2015. Of the 330 arrested, there were indictments returned against just 55 people.

In these cases, the police have their work cut out for them following the arrest as there is no information from judicial authorities. Leventos’ case is characteristic of cases in Greece, as he was allowed to continue his alleged criminal activities even though the police had compiled a case file against him in November.

Just a few months ago, another case was that of S.G., who was arrested for the third time in 20 years for molesting dozens of little girls. Though he had a 37-year sentence he was freed without any restriction.

In 2007, P.K. had been accused of attacks and rapes against 22 children. The sex offender was let off, raped a primary school student during his parole and was arrested after raping another little girl.

Three years ago, a shepherd had created a ring in the Peloponnese where he came into contact with pedophiles from around the world. Despite being apprehended he is currently free.

A similar case was that of a doctor on an island who watched hardcore scenes with children in order to have sex with his wife.

Amongst the most violent cases is that of a cleric who had pornographic material showing children being raped.