Prison sentences on the horizon for drunk driving
With the 4th Judicial Package prepared for submission to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM), penalties are being toughened for drivers who endanger traffic safety and for those who disrupt public order with firearms. Stricter sanctions are also being introduced for those who fail to return rental vehicles.
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Preparations for the first judicial package, based on the 4th Judicial Reform Strategy Document, are nearing completion following work conducted by AKP officials. The proposal, finalized by a delegation led by AKP Group Chairman Abdullah Güler, is expected to be submitted to the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey (TBMM) in the coming days.
The package, prepared with the aim of ensuring social peace and combating crime more effectively, will introduce significant changes to the Turkish Penal Code (TCK).
PRISON SENTENCES FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS
The new regulation introduces harsher sanctions for drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This act, which is currently limited to administrative sanctions, will now be punishable by imprisonment even if no traffic accident occurs.
Individuals who are unable to drive safely due to the influence of alcohol, drugs, or similar reasons will face prison sentences ranging from 6 months to 2 years. This provision will pave the way for sentencing drivers who pose a serious risk to traffic safety.
UP TO 5 YEARS IN PRISON FOR FIRING WEAPONS IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS
The new judicial package also introduces strict measures against random gunfire, known among the public as "maganda kurşunu" (hooligan bullets).
With the amendment to Article 170 of the TCK, the penalty for individuals who fire weapons or use explosives in residential areas in a manner that threatens the life, property, or psychological well-being of the public will be increased, with the lower limit rising from 6 months to 1 year and the upper limit from 3 years to 5 years.
Furthermore, firing blank-firing guns capable of discharging sound and gas cartridges will also be classified as a crime. Consequently, those who fire weapons into the air at mass events such as weddings, engagements, or military send-offs could now face prison sentences of 1 to 5 years.
Additionally, if this act is committed during weddings, engagements, or similar events, the sentence will be increased by half to double.
HEAVY SANCTIONS FOR MISUSE OF RENTAL VEHICLES
The judicial package also includes a new regulation addressing issues related to rental vehicles.
With the amendment to Article 155 of the TCK, the crime of "breach of trust" will become an aggravated offense in cases where rented motor vehicles, sea vessels, or aircraft are not returned, their parts are replaced, or these vehicles are used in the commission of a crime.
The penalty for those who commit this crime will be increased by one fold. Thus, a more deterrent penal policy will be implemented, particularly against crimes committed with rental vehicles.
DRAFT LAW SOON IN PARLIAMENT
According to reports from TRT, work on the first judicial package is largely complete. The prepared draft text will be submitted to the Speaker of the Parliament shortly to begin the legislative process.