18.06.2026 13:00
Haluk Levent, founder of AHBAP Association and famous artist, was sentenced to a judicial fine of 70 million TL in a case where he was tried because two separate checks he issued in 2025 were dishonored. The famous artist, who was also banned from issuing checks and opening new accounts, faces the risk of imprisonment if he does not pay this huge amount, should the Court of Appeals uphold the decision.
Famous artist and founder of AHBAP Association, Haluk Levent, was sentenced to a shocking penalty in the bounced check case he was tried for. The Istanbul Anatolian 24th Enforcement Criminal Court imposed a total judicial fine of 70 million TL as two separate checks issued by the famous artist were dishonored. The court also imposed severe restrictions on Levent that could shake his commercial life.
BOTH CHECKS BOUNCED
Haluk Levent faced the judge in the fifth hearing of his case following complaints from creditors due to two high-value checks issued last year being dishonored. After examining the evidence in the file, the court panel ruled that the element of the crime existed in both transactions.
The details of the dishonored checks involved in the case are as follows:
- Check dated May 20, 2025: 19,987,000 TL
- Check dated June 30, 2025: 50,083,000 TL
BOTH MASSIVE FINE AND COMMERCIAL BAN IMPOSED
The Istanbul Anatolian 24th Enforcement Criminal Court decided to impose a judicial fine totaling 70 million TL, the combined amount of the two checks. This hefty fine was not the only blow from the trial; the court also completely banned Haluk Levent from issuing new checks or opening a new checking account.
WILL GO TO PRISON IF UNPAID
This record fine from the local court does not mean Haluk Levent will immediately go to prison or must pay the amount right away. For the decision to be legally enforceable, the appeals process must first be completed. It has been learned that the famous artist will appeal the decision to a higher court. If the Appeals Court upholds this local court ruling, the penalty will become final. Once the penalty is finalized, Haluk Levent will be offered payment options including a due date and installment plans. If the artist fails to pay the finalized judicial fine, he will be sent to prison as required by law.