The former nursery school teacher of Stylianos Constantinou, a 14-year-old who died by suicide in 2019, broke down in tears during her cross-examination at the Nicosia district court. She testified about suspicions of abuse and neglect during Stylianos’ early school years, emphasizing that he often arrived at nursery in dirty and frequently repeated clothing. Despite concerns at the time, she admitted she did not report suspected abuse to authorities, citing lack of experience and knowledge as a first-year teacher.

Defence lawyers challenged her credibility and the accuracy of her claims, referring to classroom photographs they said contradicted her account. The teacher maintained that the photos were taken on picture day and did not reflect the child’s usual state. She also rejected allegations of coaching before her testimony and insisted she was recounting her genuine memories.

The case investigates potential family responsibilities and state service failings related to Stylianos’ death. Hearings will continue with further witness testimonies examining alleged abuse, neglect, and institutional responses from social welfare services.