The family of a beloved chef, described as a “gentle giant,” expressed outrage over the jail term given to the perpetrator who fatally struck him with a single blow. Cemal John Yilmaz, 29, tragically passed away after being punched by Royal Marine Commando Joseph Jones, 22, during a night out in Exmouth, Devon. Yilmaz, originally from Manchester, was knocked unconscious by a swift punch to the chin while Jones was celebrating the marines’ parade at local bars.
Yilmaz’s family is seeking justice following Jones’ three-and-a-half-year manslaughter sentence. In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, his parents, Ann and Ozkan, disclosed their plans to appeal the lenient sentence and raise awareness about the dangers of one-punch incidents. Recalling the night of the attack, Ann described the devastating impact on their family and the sudden loss of their son.
Jones, from Codsall, turned himself in to Exeter Police station the day after the assault and was taken into custody. He later pled guilty to manslaughter and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in Exeter Crown Court, with a requirement to serve two years and four months before becoming eligible for release on license.
Describing the sentence as a “disgrace,” Ann emphasized the need for stricter penalties for such violent acts, especially involving members of the military. The family has initiated an online petition, garnering over 4,000 signatures, and is actively pursuing an appeal to challenge the sentence length in their quest for justice and prevention of similar tragedies.
