The American Embassy in Athens has issued a statement regarding the potential release of convicted 17 November member Savvas Xiros, after a recent bill was vote in Greek Parliament, which included certain provisions which will allow prisoners with major health problems to be placed under house arrest.
In his statement, the American Ambassador David D. Pearce expressed his “deep concern that the legislation, coming to a final vote in the Greek parliament this evening, could lead to the early release from prison of these terrorists and other criminals convicted of serious crimes against Greeks, Americans, and people of other nationalities”.
According to Mr. Pearce “the issue is that convicted terrorists and murderers—people who have committed terrible, heinous crimes—should serve their full sentences in prison. Not in the comfort of their homes, surrounded by their friends, families, and associates. Releasing these murderers from prison dishonors the memory of those they have killed, and violates the rights of the family members whose lives they have shattered”.
He then concluded then that “convicted terrorists and other criminals convicted of serious crimes should complete their sentences as handed down by the Greek justice system. If Savvas Xiros–or anyone else with the blood of American diplomats and U.S. Mission members on their hands—leaves prison, it will be seen as a profoundly unfriendly act. There is no place for convicted terrorists in civilized political discourse or back in Greek society. These are violent criminals and they belong in prison, nowhere else. Greece is an important force for stability in the region, and has been a good partner for the United States on a number of issues, including law enforcement and counterterrorism. We believe this legislation is inconsistent with that partnership. This is not just a humanitarian issue, it is also an important security issue”.
