A British comedian could receive a sentence of up to three years in a Turkish prison after leaving a Zara store without settling the bill — even though she returned to apologize once she recognized her error.
Cerys Nelmes, a comedian from the Cotswolds, was purchasing clothes in Istanbul on July 22, according to her account, when she unintentionally forgot to check out with her items.
She asserts that she went back to the store to return the items and was willing to pay, but instead was held captive, confined in a room for several hours without any reason given, and ultimately charged with shoplifting.
Ms. Nelmes mentioned that she was taken to a police station, urged to sign papers in a language she couldn't understand, and kept in a cell for 24 hours without any food, bathroom facilities, or water.
The comedian, who previously portrayed a paramedic in the medical series Casualty, stated: 'I was told they didn't comprehend me.'
The following day, she appeared before a judge who set her free but prohibited her from departing the country.
She could now receive a maximum sentence of three years as the legal proceedings continue.
Nelmes claims she is stuck in Turkey, unable to pay for lodging and missing work in her homeland, which puts her and her son in danger of losing their UK residence.
She stated, "I'm fine and have been accommodated by a Turkish family that provided me with food and a place to sleep."
Ms. Nelmes refers to herself on her website as a "top MC in the comedy scene" and frequently performs for the UK military – including being the final comedian to entertain UK forces before their departure from Afghanistan.
Her performance roles have featured in Casualty and JK Rowling's The Casual Vacancy.
In addition to her stand-up shows, she gained attention in April 2019 after rescuing a fellow customer who was choking at a restaurant prior to a performance.
The comedian was having a meal in Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, when she carried out the Heimlich maneuver to remove a prawn that was lodged in a woman's throat.
In a social media post discussing her arrest and being stuck in Turkey, she stated: "On Tuesday, I left a Zara shop in Istanbul without paying for the items."
I went back immediately and gave the items to the staff. I was asked to make a payment, and I agreed, with the manager accepting this arrangement.
In short, I was later taken to a locked room, and hours passed without any contact from anyone. Eventually, I was taken by the police to a station and asked to sign documents I couldn't understand.
I was placed in a jail cell for a full day without any food or access to a restroom. When I requested water, I was informed that they couldn't comprehend me.
I was arrested and had my fingerprints taken along with a photo at 3 in the morning. The next day, I was taken to court and placed in a cell.
I appeared before the judge and was informed by a translator that I had been released, yet I was unable to depart from Turkey for an unspecified period.
He claimed I was fortunate not to be sent to jail, but I am now facing a potential sentence of up to three years. I am required to visit a nearby police station every Monday.
I am fortunate to have good friends in Turkey who are currently taking care of me and attempting to translate the documents.
I don't have any money, no income from home, and I'm running out of essential medication. I'll lose the house I live in with my son, along with my means of support.
I'm not seeking pity. I made an error that I tried to fix right away. I feel ashamed for my friends and family, and I've caused my 78-year-old mother to become ill. I will never forgive myself for my actions.
A representative from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office stated: "We are offering assistance to a British citizen in Turkey."
Zara has been reached out for a response.
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