Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of Firearm and Ammunition

The court panel, presided over by Judge Füsun Cemaller with Senior Judge Vedia Berkut Barkın and Judge Tutku Candaş, found Yavuzcan guilty on three separate charges. In delivering the verdict, Judge Barkın emphasized that the court had weighed various factors including the seriousness of the offence, the method of its commission, its impact on public safety, and the defendant’s criminal history.

The judge stressed the importance of protecting public interest, especially in cases where public safety is at risk. The ruling underscored that the courts have a responsibility to impose sentences that are proportionate to the gravity of the crime and serve to deter both the defendant and others from committing similar offences.

In this context, Barkın noted that the crimes Yavuzcan was convicted of carry maximum penalties of up to 10 and 7 years in prison, reflecting their seriousness. The judge pointed out that such offences have become increasingly common and pose a serious threat to public safety.

Yavuzcan claimed that he had acquired the firearm for protection after receiving threats. However, the court rejected this justification, stating that in a state governed by the rule of law, he should have sought protection from the police. The court also took into account that Yavuzcan had previously been convicted of a similar offence in 2023, and yet reoffended in 2025, indicating a failure to reform.

Although the court acknowledged in Yavuzcan's favour that the weapon was not used and that he pleaded guilty and expressed remorse, the gravity of the offences led to a custodial sentence.

Yavuzcan was initially remanded in custody on 14 April following his arrest and has now been sentenced to two years in prison.