Faruk Koca, the previous president of Turkish Süper Lig aspect Ankaragücü, expressed regret in courtroom on Tuesday for assaulting a referee on the conclusion of a league match however refuted allegations of threatening the official’s life.
Koca, who resigned as president of Ankaragücü after punching referee Halil Umut Meler, faces costs of inflicting willful damage to a public official, threatening an official and violating a legislation associated to the prevention of violence in sports activities.
He could possibly be sentenced to as much as 13 years in jail if discovered responsible.
The assault on Meler occurred on Dec. 11 after a 1-1 draw between Ankaragücü and Rizespor.
The referee, who was additionally kicked by two different people whereas mendacity on the bottom, was hospitalized with a minor fracture close to his eye.
Meler has accused Koca of threatening to kill him in the course of the assault. Koca was arrested however has since been launched on bail.
In courtroom, he appeared with three different defendants, all going through costs.
According to Anadolu Agency (AA), Koca informed the courtroom in the course of the opening listening to: “The part about the threat is not true. It was the first time in my life that I engaged in a physical intervention against anyone. I am sorry. I have already expressed my regrets to the public. I present my regrets once again in court.”
The trial was adjourned till Feb. 28.
The assault in opposition to Meler brought about public outrage and led the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) to droop all league video games for per week.
Koca obtained a everlasting ban from soccer, whereas Ankaragucu was fined TL 2 million ($69,000) and compelled to play 5 house video games with out followers.
Source: www.dailysabah.com