The case emerged in October 2024 when the anti-money laundering authority discovered the diocese had transferred funds to a businessman in Patra who used the money to rent a nightclub.
Investigations revealed over 3 million euros flowed to five accounts linked to the businessman.
The former bishop denied embezzlement charges, claiming he acted within the church’s charitable mission.
He said the businessman contacted him years ago seeking help for his destitute family, and argued that bank transfers proved legitimacy.
He maintained bishops have sole discretion over diocesan funds.
He was released on 30,000 euros bail with travel restrictions.
The businessman previously received an eight-year suspended sentence for extorting 360,000 euros from a clergyman in Central Greece.