Second act in probation: Practice that began during the pandemic to be expanded

Stating that the addition of the regulation in question to the judicial package awaiting discussion in the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) via an amendment is being debated, Gazete Pencere columnist Nuray Babacan said, "This right, which began during the pandemic period, was valid for those whose sentences became final and whose execution began as of July 31, 2023. It is stated that the date the crime was committed should be taken as the basis in such a regulation. With the correction to be made now, all crimes committed before this date will benefit from this right, regardless of when their cases become final."

'CONDUCTING A SILENT OPERATION'

Saying that "a release of half as many people as those released previously is expected," Babacan noted the following:

"Although it is not being stated, the Ministry of Justice is conducting a silent operation in this way. While prison overcrowding is being reduced through this method, the 'release process' is being turned into a routine. On the other hand, new crimes are being witnessed on the streets every day. It is claimed that the reason why those caught have multiple criminal records lies in this."

MINISTER TUNÇ'S STATEMENT

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç made statements yesterday regarding the controversial regulations of the Execution Law; he said, "Whether probation should be applied for certain crimes or not is something we need to discuss with our criminal law experts. We see that there is criticism in society regarding the application of probation, especially concerning intentional killing and intentional injury. We must take these into account. We must protect society from crime."

Minister Tunç also stated, "In this sense, preventive measures against the commission of crime are the most important issue. Educational efforts and awareness-raising activities aimed at families. After a crime is committed, the investigation must also be conducted effectively. Law enforcement and the prosecutor's office must maintain a very good relationship and collect evidence and material facts. It disturbs society when evidence and footage emerge after individuals are released. What can be done to make the investigation more effective in terms of obtaining this footage and evidence during the investigation phase? There was an idea regarding judicial law enforcement in the election manifesto. This issue can be discussed. The evaluation of evidence is important in terms of prosecution."