A man accused of murdering a Scottish mother on the Greek island of Crete 17 years ago told a court on Wednesday, "Why would I hurt her?" The body of Jean Hanlon, 53, from Dumfries, was found in the water off Heraklion on March 13, 2009, four days after she disappeared during a night out.
Accused Denies Murder, Admits Keeping Photos
The defendant, who cannot be named under Greek law, took the stand on the second day of evidence at the Lassithi Mixed Assize Court. According to Greek daily newspaper Ta Nea, he admitted to keeping two photographs of Jean, one placed next to photos of his parents. When asked by the prosecutor why he kept them, he replied, "Why wouldn't I remember it well?"
The accused claimed he learned of Jean's death from the press and did not seek her out because they had separated. He insisted their relationship lasted only a few days, though Jean's diary reportedly indicated it lasted about a month and a half. He also cited mental health problems during his testimony.
Pathologist Details Fatal Injuries
On Monday, the court heard from a forensic pathologist involved in a 2019 review of the case. The pathologist stated that Jean's death was likely caused by an incomplete tear of the brain stem, resulting from a fatal blow to the back of the neck with a blunt object. The injuries were not consistent with a fall, and Jean may have been alive when she entered the water.
Jean's three sons, who traveled to Crete seeking justice, heard distressing details of the injuries she suffered before death, including a broken neck, punctured lung, and shattered rib. Her death was initially reported as a drowning, but a second post-mortem suggested injuries consistent with a struggle.
Private Investigator Testifies on Motive
Private investigator Haris Veramon told the court that while he did not know the exact location of the attack or where Jean's body was dumped at sea, he was certain of the defendant's guilt. Ta Nea quoted him as saying the likely motive was "rejection." He stated, "Jean Hanlon rejected him and that caused a kind of aggressive arousal in the defendant."
The Hanlon family's lawyer, Apostolos Xiritakis, expressed satisfaction with how evidence was led in court, saying, "After 17 years and the persistent effort of the family, it seems that the moment is approaching when Justice will give its answer."
Background and Campaign for Justice
Jean Hanlon moved to Crete in 2005, working in bars and restaurants in the coastal resort of Kato Gouves. Her family long campaigned for the case to be reinvestigated and even hired a private detective to uncover the truth. The case against the 54-year-old defendant, originally from Crete, was adjourned until Friday.
Jean's son Michael O'Porter said, "The anxiety is intense, not knowing what to expect. The fears of not getting justice. Will our mum finally be heard?"
