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Court releases American pastor Brunson lifting house arrest and ban to leave Turkey

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Court releases American pastor Brunson lifting house arrest and ban to leave Turkey

Turkish court sentenced Pastor Andrew Craig Brunson who caused major tension between Turkey and the USA, to 3 years 1 month 15 days imprisonment. In consideration of the time he served in prison, the court released the pastor, also lifting the prior verdicts of house arrest and ban to leave the country.

The American pastor appeared in court for the fourth time on charges of military espionage and helping some terror organizations in Turkey. At the hearing held today, Brunson emphasized that he was not in any way combined with members of PKK terror organization.

The prosecutor stated that he was ready and presented his opinion. He demanded that the defendant be punished in accordance with the indictment, but that the judicial control provisions covering house arrest and the ban on leaving abroad should be lifted. Brunson and his lawyer didn’t want time for the last defense. Lawyer Ismail Cem Halavurt said that they rejected all accusations and asked for acquittal.

Brunson said, “I’m an innocent man. I love Jesus. I love Turkey”. Oktay Tabur, the chief judge sentenced Brunson to 5 years imprisonment for the charge of “helping a the terror organization”. He reduced this penalty by half then increased by ½ to 3 years and 9 months. Finally, taking into account Brunson’s situation at the hearings, he ruled for 3 years 1 month and 15 days. Taking into account the time of detention and detention in custody, he decided to lift the house arrest and ban to leave the country.

The Court’s decision did not include any provision for the accusation of “espionage” in question since the beginning. Pastor Brunson is reported to be leaving back home to the USA any minute.

On the other hand the US side has submitted some positive messages expressing they were pleased with the result.

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