Man Who Killed Police Officer While Driving Under Influence Claims Self-Surrender for Reduced Sentence

Central News Agency reporter Liu Shih-yi, Taipei, June 2. Huang Kuo-wei, a man who drove under the influence of 'zombie vape' drugs and killed New Taipei City Sanchong police officer Huang Wei-chen, injuring two others, is facing a retrial at the High Court. The first-instance citizen judge court sentenced him to 18 years and 6 months in prison. Today, the High Court held a retrial hearing where the defendant argued that he should be eligible for a reduced sentence due to self-surrender, while the plaintiff requested a 20-year sentence. During the hearing, Huang and his defense argued that the first-instance sentence was too heavy and that his actions met the criteria for self-surrender. Regarding the detention period expiring on July 1, the defendant had no objections to its extension. The prosecutor stated that Huang committed a serious crime and has a history of fleeing, requesting continued detention. The plaintiff and their lawyer argued that Huang's post-crime attitude was poor, he has not provided information on drug rehabilitation, and given the severity of drug-impaired driving in society, they requested the statutory maximum of 20 years or at least the maintenance of the 18-year-6-month sentence. Huang stated in court that he received the civil summons but has not been brought to court, and compensation is still being discussed with his family. The judge concluded the preparatory proceedings and scheduled the next hearing for August 20 to continue the trial and debate. The case originated on July 13, 2024, when Huang, driving without a license after using drugs, crashed into a police vehicle. The first-instance court noted his history of over 70 traffic violations and lack of reconciliation with the victim's family. After a procedural remand, the case is now being heard again by the High Court.