On October 11, 2018, an Izmir District Court decided that American religious worker, Andrew Brunson, provided material support to a criminal organization in violation of Turkish Criminal Code § 220(7). The panel of judges acquitted Brunson on other charges.
The District Court sentenced Brunson to three years, one month and fifteen days; granted him credit for time served; and lifted his travel ban. After processing by the Izmir Department of Corrections, Brunson was released.
TASC commends the separation of powers and independence of the judiciary in Turkey, welcomes the conclusion of this matter, and expresses hope that the resolution of this case will contribute to the much needed improvement of relations between the United States and the Republic of Turkey.
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