Greek authorities are expanding their investigation into a corruption network in Crete after the arrest of a forensic pathologist and a toxicologist on repeated passive bribery charges.

The two suspects were arrested in the city of Chania on Thursday and appeared before prosecutors, where they were formally charged with accepting bribes. They requested and were granted additional time to prepare their defense and are scheduled to testify before an investigating magistrate on Monday, July 27.

The case stems from a months-long police investigation and involves at least 25 individuals named in the case file.

According to investigators, the inquiry is linked to a major case that first drew the attention of authorities last September. Police are continuing to examine the evidence collected in an effort to determine the role of everyone involved.

Suspects Deny Wrongdoing

Both suspects have denied all allegations.

Their lawyer said they are unaware of the basis for their arrests and that a clearer picture will emerge once the defense has reviewed the case file.

Eight Cases Under Review

According to local reports, investigators are examining eight separate cases to determine whether forensic or toxicology reports were falsified in exchange for money.

The cases under review include:

• A fatal road accident, where investigators are examining allegations that a false toxicology report was issued for financial gain.
• A sudden death case involving claims of falsified forensic and toxicology reports.
• A second fatal traffic accident in which a forensic report is being scrutinized.
• An armed confrontation involving police officers, where investigators are examining an allegedly false forensic report.
• A complaint alleging that money was demanded from a family in exchange for issuing a forensic report.
• A rape investigation in which authorities are examining claims that a forensic report was falsified.
• A drug-related case involving allegations that a toxicology report was altered to benefit a suspect.
• A second narcotics case involving similar claims of manipulation of toxicology findings.