The mother of Kyriaki Griva, the young woman who was tragically murdered, spoke out after the man who killed her was sentenced to life in prison plus five years for premeditated murder committed in a calm mental state.

“My Kyriaki has been vindicated. Her soul has found justice,” her mother said after the court ruling was announced by the Athens Mixed Jury Court. “Tomorrow I’ll go to her grave, bring her something sweet, and tell her the news. I’m sure she’ll come to me in my dreams tonight – like she always does,” she said emotionally.

Referring to the murderer, she added, “Finally, one more monster is behind bars.”

A Message to All Women

Kyriaki’s mother also sent a strong and heartfelt message to women everywhere:
“Be happy, be strong, and speak out, even if it’s incredibly hard — I understand that. I’ll be here for any woman who needs me. I will stand up against what we now call femicide. Enough with the excuse that every time a woman is murdered, the perpetrator claims mental illness.”

Her Father Speaks Out: “I Hope There Will Be No More Women Like Kyriaki”

Kyriaki’s father also expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision and thanked the justice system:
“If an even harsher sentence existed, they would’ve given it. The court punished him appropriately and showed him exactly where he belongs.”

He also delivered a powerful message:
“I hope there will be no more women like Kyriaki or Koula, who go to the police for help and are turned away.”

Emotions Run High in the Courtroom

As soon as the verdict was read, Kyriaki’s family broke down in tears, embracing one another in the courtroom. The convicted killer, on the other hand, showed no emotion.

Her father, overwhelmed with grief and anger, turned to him and said, “Do you see what you’ve done, Thanassaki? You turned her into a photo on a wall. Look at you – no remorse, no expression, even after 25 years.”