Man given prison sentence for torturing stray dog

Photo: Özge Özgüner/csgorselarsiv.org 

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An İstanbul court has sentenced Enes Çağrı K., 30, to 1 year and 3 months in prison for torturing a stray dog in İstanbul, Anadolu Agency (AA) reported.

Çağrı K. was released after yesterday's (January 19) hearing at the 46th Penal Court of First Instance. He had been remanded in custody for weeks.

On November 27, a social media user posted a video showing the man torturing a dog in Sarıyer, İstanbul.

He was detained shortly after and fined 2,043 lira (108 US dollars) as per Animal Protection Law No. 5199. The court released the man upon judicial control measures.

During the investigation, prosecutors ordered his detention because the camera footage included the defendant's "persistent, intense and agonizing" actions against the dog. The footage showed the man pressing his knee to the dog and squeezing its throat.

He was remanded in custody after appearing before a penal judgeship of peace. The Sarıyer Municipality took the dog under protection and began its treatment.

"Intent to kill"

In the indictment, the prosecutors noted that the dog had not attacked Çağrı K. prior to his actions.

The man had intentions to kill the animal and it was saved thanks to people living nearby, who threw pots at him, according to the indictment.

In his defense, Çağrı K. said he was drunk and regretted what he had done.

However, the prosecutors stated, being under the influence of alcohol or drugs while committing a crime does no reduce or remove criminal responsibility.

Handing down its decision, the court sentenced Çağrı K. and ordered his release. (TY/VK)