A retired police officer appeared before an examining magistrate Monday on felony charges of poisoning eight stray cats in Thessaloniki, released without restrictive conditions as the case heads toward trial.
The 57-year-old faces multiple counts of companion animal homicide and attempted animal homicide using poisonous substances.
The incidents occurred between late February and early March of last year in the Ano Toumba neighborhood, coming to light after a local woman who regularly fed the stray cats filed a formal complaint.
Investigators identified the suspect through security camera footage showing him placing a container of tainted food in a public area.
A ninth cat survived after receiving veterinary treatment.
The suspect denied all involvement, telling the magistrate the allegations were baseless.
He argued that forensic laboratory tests on the food container produced no DNA evidence linking him to it, and said that while he was present in the area during the period in question, he had been visiting an acquaintance to deliver leftover food from a university cafeteria, and also regularly visits a nearby Mount Athos monastery lodge.
In addition to the criminal charges, the suspect faces a 60,000-euro administrative fine, which he is contesting in administrative court.
A judicial council will determine whether the case proceeds to full trial once the primary investigation is complete.
The case has drawn attention in Greece, where animal welfare laws were significantly strengthened in recent years following public outcry over a series of high-profile poisoning incidents targeting stray animals.