Ammar Zoni’s legal counsel, Jon Mathias, has confirmed that the defense team is currently deliberating their next steps following the actor’s 7-year prison sentence. This period of consideration comes after the verdict was handed down for his involvement in a drug-related case.
According to Jon Mathias, while the legal team respects the judge’s decision, they are not yet prepared to immediately accept the lengthy sentence imposed on Ammar Zoni. “Ammar is taking time to think it over. There’s still a 7-day window for this,” Jon stated at the Central Jakarta District Court on Thursday, April 23rd.
Mathias further emphasized that this particular ruling is not yet final, highlighting the various legal avenues still available for his client to explore. The defense is actively considering several options to challenge the verdict. “Well, an appeal can certainly be filed, right? A judicial review (PK) can be pursued, right? Amnesty could even be sought, or abolition,” Jon elaborated, outlining the potential strategies. “There are numerous legal remedies. So, for now, patience is key. The immediate priority is to respect the judge’s decision, as that is their prerogative.”
Regarding the possibility of filing an appeal, Jon could not provide extensive details at this stage. He indicated that many factors require careful consideration before a definitive decision can be made. “We have to think things through first. Everything must be weighed carefully. We cannot approach legal matters with emotion,” he added, stressing the importance of a calculated approach.
Addressing concerns about potential disappointment from Ammar’s family, Jon Mathias stated that he has not yet received any complaints or protests from them directly. “I haven’t encountered any discontent or protests directed at me from his family. This specifically pertains to his family. So, if it comes from outside the immediate family, well, that’s merely public opinion,” he clarified.
Previously, Ammar Zoni, alongside five other co-defendants, was accused of supplying and distributing crystal methamphetamine and marijuana within a detention facility. This serious offense led to his transfer to a super-maximum security prison located in Nusakambangan, known for its stringent security measures.
The five other defendants implicated in the case were identified as Asep bin Sarikin, Ardian Prasetyo bin Arie Ardih, Andi Muallim alias Koh Andi, Ade Candra Maulana bin Mursalih, and Muhammad Rivaldi. Their involvement underscores the scope of the alleged drug trafficking network within the correctional environment.
For their actions, Ammar and his five co-defendants were charged under Article 114 paragraph (2) in conjunction with Article 132 paragraph (1) or Article 112 paragraph (2) in conjunction with Article 132 paragraph (1) of Law Number 35 Year 2009 concerning Narcotics. These articles address serious drug-related offenses, including distribution and possession.
During the earlier demand hearing, the Public Prosecutor (JPU) had sought a more severe penalty for Ammar Zoni, recommending a 9-year prison sentence and a fine of Rp 500 million, with a subsidiary sentence of 4.5 months if the fine was not paid. This was in connection with the alleged drug distribution activities inside the detention center.
Ultimately, the judge’s verdict declared Ammar Zoni guilty, sentencing him to 7 years in prison and imposing a significantly higher fine of Rp 1 Billion, with a subsidiary sentence of 190 days. Following this judgment, Ammar has chosen to exercise his right to consider his options before making a final decision on whether to appeal.
Summary
Ammar Zoni has been sentenced to 7