Full Breakdown
Columbia Professor Accused of Swindling Elderly Man for Greek Property
4/11/2026, 10:22:38 PM
Allegations of Exploitation and Financial Manipulation
A lawsuit has been filed against Dr. Maria Karayiorgou, a professor emerita of psychiatry at Columbia University, alleging that she swindled Frank Watrous Hamilton III, a 72-year-old retired Wall Street executive, out of $1.3 million to purchase a home in Greece. The lawsuit, initiated by Hamilton's family, claims that he was particularly vulnerable following a stroke in 2018, which significantly impaired his mental and physical health. The family asserts that Karayiorgou took advantage of Hamilton's condition, establishing an intimate relationship with him between 2021 and 2022.
According to the lawsuit, Hamilton's son contends that Karayiorgou should have recognized his father's frailty and disorientation. The family alleges that she embedded herself into Hamilton's life to gain his trust and manipulate him into transferring substantial funds for her personal benefit. The relationship reportedly included multiple visits during holidays and special occasions, during which Hamilton referred to Karayiorgou as his fiancée or wife.
Financial Transactions and Ownership Dispute
The legal documents reveal that Hamilton transferred $100,000 to Karayiorgou on April 4, 2022, followed by an additional $1.2 million on May 18, 2022, to facilitate the purchase of a property in Athens, Greece. Despite an alleged agreement to co-own the house, Karayiorgou is listed as the sole owner and subsequently severed ties with Hamilton. The family discovered the wire transfers only after Hamilton's death on January 26, 2025.
Professional Background of Dr. Maria Karayiorgou
Dr. Maria Karayiorgou is recognized for her research in the genetics of schizophrenia, with 146 published scientific papers and over 16,876 citations. She currently serves as the Acting Chief of the Division of Medical Genetics in the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University. Prior to the allegations, she owned a $1.7 million home in the Riverdale section of the Bronx.
Criticism and Legal Proceedings
The lawsuit raises serious ethical concerns regarding the conduct of a trusted academic professional. Hamilton's family argues that Karayiorgou "intentionally exploited Hamilton’s vulnerabilities" and used her position of trust to influence him. As of now, Karayiorgou has not publicly commented on the allegations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the lawsuit presents a detailed account of the alleged exploitation, there is no response from Dr. Karayiorgou or her legal representatives regarding the claims made by Hamilton's family. The absence of her perspective leaves a gap in the narrative, as the full context of the relationship and financial arrangements remains unclear.
What's Next
The ongoing legal proceedings will likely bring further scrutiny to the relationship dynamics and financial transactions between Karayiorgou and Hamilton. The outcome may have implications for both parties, particularly concerning the ethical responsibilities of professionals in positions of trust.
