Abused a 13-year-old child: Received good conduct discount

On 24 August 2024 in Bursa, a 13-year-old girl was abducted by her neighbour Melik Aras and taken to Istanbul. The child, who was subjected to sexual abuse there, stated in her testimony at the Child Advocacy Centre that she had previously been subjected to a similar situation. A medical examination at the hospital revealed findings consistent with abuse.

Melik Aras was taken into custody on 25 August 2024 following the incident but was released to stand trial without arrest.

In the indictment prepared by the Bursa Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, punishment was sought against Aras on charges of "deprivation of liberty" and "aggravated sexual abuse of a child."

Aras, who remained free for 14 months, was arrested at the hearing held on 14 August. At the fifth hearing on 11 November 2025, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison on the charge of "sexual abuse of a child."

However, his sentence was reduced to 13 years and 4 months following the application of a "good conduct" discount. In addition, he was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months in prison on the charge of "deprivation of liberty," bringing the total sentence to 15 years and 10 months.

Bülent Özdaman, the lawyer for the victim child, stated that the sentence could have been higher and announced they would appeal the ruling. Özdaman said: "A sentence of around 22 or close to 25 years could have been handed down to the defendant, yet a total sentence of approximately 16 years was given."

News Source: 12punto