Allegations by woman in Taşkesenlioğlu's divorce case lead to new lawsuit: 'Sexual assault'

The divorce case between former MP Taşkesenlioğlu and former Turkish Aeronautical Association University Rector Ünsal Ban, which concluded in 2023, has taken on a new dimension following allegations of sexual harassment and assault made by a woman who testified as a witness in court.

According to a report by Serkan Demirtaş from T24, the woman who testified as a witness claimed that she met with Ban for a job interview and was subjected to sexual harassment and assault during that process. 

In her testimony in court, she stated that Ban exerted physical and psychological pressure on her and made inappropriate demands under the pretext of a business relationship. Following these statements by the woman, the judge presiding over the divorce case filed a criminal complaint with the Public Prosecutor's Office.

PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE TO FILE LAWSUIT

The prosecutor's office examined the woman's statements and the evidence related to the incident and decided to file a lawsuit against Ban for the crimes of "sexual harassment" and "aggravated sexual assault." In addition to the woman's statements, records from the office and hotel where the incident allegedly took place, as well as communication evidence, were included in the file. While the suspect Ban denied all accusations, the prosecutor's office completed the investigation process and prepared the indictment.

FIRST HEARING HELD

The first hearing of the criminal case was held recently. The woman, who testified as the victim, said that Ünsal Ban deceived her with the promise of a job and that she was subjected to harassment and assault during this process. The woman stated that she remained silent for a long time due to threats and fear, and was only able to disclose these events during the divorce case.

The prosecutor's office stated that the woman's statements were consistent with the incident and supported by the collected evidence. The case will continue in upcoming hearings with the testimony of new witnesses and the further examination of evidence.

News Source: 12punto