5 years and 3 months prison requested for Kerimcan Durmaz

The trial of Kerimcan Durmaz, who is alleged to have advertised illegal betting and directed people toward such gambling games, continues at the Istanbul 23rd Criminal Court of First Instance. Durmaz was arrested in early January and released about a month later. In the latest hearing of the case, the prosecution reiterated its allegations and announced its sentencing request.

The public prosecutor pointed out that Kerimcan Durmaz promoted illegal betting and gambling games online in a chain-like manner and caused harm to society, requesting a prison sentence ranging from 1 year and 3 months to 5 years and 3 months. Furthermore, the prosecutor stated that the fact that Durmaz addresses a large follower base on social media constitutes an aggravating factor for the crime of incitement.

The court panel granted the defense additional time to respond to the prosecutor's statement and adjourned the case to a later date.

In the indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office, the Spor Toto Organization Presidency is listed as the "aggrieved party," while Kerimcan Durmaz is listed as the "suspect." Within the scope of the file, it was stated that illegal betting sites were advertised with Durmaz's knowledge, and that the suspect turning his back to the screens during these promotions was contrary to the ordinary flow of life. Attention was also drawn to Durmaz's remark during this time, "you know, casinos and such."

The indictment also included the assessment that "by encouraging illegal betting and gambling, Durmaz portrayed such actions as habitual behavior to society, and this situation harms the social structure." While Durmaz does not accept the accusations against him, it is understood that the judicial process will continue with the defenses to be presented at the next hearing.

News Source: 12punto