Kerimcan Durmaz Sentenced in Illegal Betting Promotion Case

Turkish social media personality Kerimcan Durmaz has been handed a prison sentence after being found guilty of promoting illegal betting platforms, in a case that has once again drawn attention to the legal risks influencers face when advertising unlawful gambling services. The ruling, delivered by an Istanbul court, concludes months of judicial proceedings centered on accusations that Durmaz encouraged followers to engage in illegal betting activities through promotional content.

Court Delivers Verdict in High-Profile Influencer Trial

The Istanbul 23rd Criminal Court of First Instance announced its decision in the trial of Kerimcan Durmaz, sentencing the influencer to 1 year and 8 months in prison. The court found Durmaz guilty of encouraging individuals to participate in illegal sports betting and games of chance through advertising and other promotional methods, applying the ruling under the framework of “chain offense” provisions.

Durmaz was not present at the hearing when the verdict was read. He was represented by his lawyer, Müge Doğan, who argued that her client had not committed the alleged crime and requested a full acquittal. The court, however, rejected the defense’s request and upheld the charges brought by prosecutors.

Detention, Release, and Ongoing Judicial Measures

Durmaz had initially been arrested on January 8 as part of the investigation and later released on February 20 pending trial. Despite his release, the court ruled that the judicial control measure banning him from traveling abroad would remain in force, signaling that legal oversight will continue even after the sentencing decision.

The verdict came in below the sentence range sought by prosecutors, yet it still represents a significant legal consequence for a figure with a large social media following and strong influence over online audiences.

Prosecutors Highlight Public Risk of Illegal Betting Ads

In the indictment prepared by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Spor Toto Organization Directorate was listed as the injured party. Prosecutors argued that Durmaz knowingly took part in content production that promoted illegal betting websites, thereby encouraging gambling and betting activities prohibited under Turkish law.

A key element of the prosecution’s case focused on Durmaz’s extensive follower base. According to the indictment, his visibility and popularity increased the potential harm of the alleged offense, transforming it from a simple advertising violation into a matter of public order and social risk. Prosecutors stressed that illegal betting not only undermines lawful sports betting systems but also exposes individuals to financial exploitation and criminal networks.

Visual Evidence and Statements Under Scrutiny

Among the more striking details in the indictment were references to video recordings in which illegal betting advertisements appeared on LED screens behind Durmaz. Prosecutors argued that Durmaz’s claim that he did not notice these advertisements was contrary to the normal course of life, particularly given the visibility of the screens and the context of the filming.

The indictment also cited a statement allegedly made by Durmaz during the recordings, translated as “hani casinolar falan”, which prosecutors included as supporting evidence that he was aware of the gambling-related content being displayed. These elements were used to argue that the influencer acted with knowledge and intent, rather than by accident, in appearing in promotional material.

Requested Sentence Versus Final Ruling

The prosecution sought a prison sentence ranging from 1 year and 3 months to 5 years and 3 months, citing chain-offense provisions for repeated acts of promotion. The court ultimately imposed a sentence near the lower end of this range, reflecting a partial acceptance of mitigating factors while still affirming criminal liability.

Legal observers note that while the sentence fell short of the maximum requested, it still sends a strong message about the judiciary’s stance on illegal betting promotion, especially when carried out by high-profile online figures.

Broader Implications for Influencers and Digital Advertising

The Kerimcan Durmaz case underscores the growing legal scrutiny surrounding social media advertising and influencer marketing in Turkey. Authorities have increasingly emphasized that digital platforms are not exempt from existing laws, particularly regarding gambling, betting, and games of chance.

With influencers wielding significant power to shape consumer behavior, courts and regulators appear determined to hold content creators accountable for the products and services they promote. The ruling may prompt influencers and advertising agencies alike to reassess sponsorship deals, especially those involving industries subject to strict regulation.