Tempe train collision trial restarted after judge recuses amid courtroom tensions

The trial over missing surveillance footage from the deadly 2023 Tempe train collision has been forced to restart after the presiding judge at the Larissa Misdemeanor Court recused herself, nullifying 19 prior sessions. The case involves the former president and chief executive of the Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE) and a security firm official from Interstar Security, who are accused of failing to secure footage from a Thessaloniki freight station before the disaster that killed 57 people.

Tensions escalated when the judge abruptly left the bench, citing repeated insults and interruptions from lawyers. She later explained she had stepped out to retrieve keys to the evidence storage room, but declared recusal after claiming the courtroom environment had become intolerable. A judicial council upheld her decision.

The confrontation was led by former parliamentary speaker Zoe Konstantopoulou, who pursued the judge and demanded explanations, questioning her impartiality and shouting accusations.

Greece’s Association of Judges and Prosecutors condemned Konstantopoulou’s behavior, calling it “unprecedented” and warning that such actions risk undermining the justice system. They emphasized the need for professional conduct to safeguard judicial integrity.

Prior to the disruption, the court had heard testimony from only three witnesses, highlighting how the conflict has delayed proceedings in one of Greece’s most high-profile legal cases.