Father accused of harassing his own son released on bail

Today, a 48-year-old man with the initials B.K., detained on charges of sexually harassing his minor son, was released on bail after a renewed hearing at the Nicosia District Court.

According to police, the incident took place between 2023 and 2025 in a family living in Alayköy. The teenager, who turned 16, was hospitalized after a suicide attempt, which triggered the investigation.

During the court session, police officer Toykan Gülerler testified as a witness. He stated that two mobile phones, a USB stick, and a computer were seized from the suspect during the search — all of which were sent for forensic examination. In addition, according to the police, the accused gave a voluntary statement claiming that his actions were merely “jokes between father and son” and that he had no intention of harassment.

Medical examinations conducted during the investigation showed no physical or clinical signs of sexual contact from the father. The child was examined by a pediatric surgeon, and the conclusion was reviewed and approved by a forensic expert. At the same time, three psychiatrists examined the son; examinations of the seized digital devices are still ongoing at the Digital Data Center.

The defendant’s legal defense argued that the son had previously undergone psychological treatment and had mental health issues that may not have been related to the father’s actions.

Judge Şevket Gazi took into account the medical reports and the course of the investigation and ruled that the suspect be released under investigative measures — a travel ban, bail of 40,000 Turkish lira, two guarantors each required to sign a bond of 750,000 Turkish lira, and the obligation to appear in court once a week (measure "ıspat-ı vücut").

Thus, despite the severity of the charges — “sexual abuse of a child under 16,” “sexual abuse of his own child,” and “assault” — the father was released under bail conditions. The investigation is ongoing, and the final decision will be made as new evidence and expert reports are obtained.