Lawyer for Cem Küçük Issues Statement: 'He Has Not Obtained the Slightest Illicit Gain'

Merve Uçanok, the lawyer for Turkish journalist and television personality Cem Küçük, has released a statement vehemently contesting his arrest. Küçük was detained on charges of 'disseminating misleading information to the public' and 'extortion.' Uçanok emphasized that while Küçük was brought before the court on both accusations, the prosecution only sought detention for the charge of disseminating misleading information. He was consequently released regarding the extortion charge. The lawyer characterized the court's decision to detain Küçük solely on the dissemination charge as 'unjust and unlawful.' Uçanok defended her client, stating that Küçük has been active in the media since 2013 and has never obtained any 'illicit gains' throughout his career. She explained that financial transfers into his account were related to his journalistic and publishing work, or stemmed from personal debt obligations. The statement also detailed Küçük's modest lifestyle, noting he lives in a rented apartment, drives a car purchased with savings, and is married to an English teacher. Uçanok expressed confidence that Küçük will be exonerated and regain his freedom upon final review by the judicial authorities.

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The decision in question is unjust and unlawful.