Former CIB Deputy Commissioner Huang Chien-jung Sentenced to 7 Months for Intimidating Debtor

(CNA, Reporter Hsieh Chun-lin, Taipei, 9th) Former Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) Deputy Commissioner Huang Chien-jung, who was involved in the controversy surrounding visits to the "88 Clubhouse" in Taipei, was sentenced to 7 months in prison by the Taipei District Court today. He was prosecuted by the Taipei District Prosecutors Office on charges of intimidation for allegedly threatening a debtor to repay a loan early, fearing his money-lending would be investigated. The verdict is appealable.

The controversy over prosecutors and police visiting the "88 Clubhouse" erupted in November 2022. In January of the following year, the National Police Agency of the Ministry of the Interior announced its investigation findings, identifying 26 police officers who had attended banquets and disciplining several officers, including Huang Chien-jung who received one demerit.

The indictment from the Taipei District Prosecutors Office stated that in May 2022, Huang learned through his girlfriend that a female head of a company was in urgent need of funds. He then lent NT$10 million to the victim through a friend surnamed Li.

According to the prosecutors' investigation, after the "88 Clubhouse" incident broke, Huang grew concerned that his money-lending would be investigated. In late August 2023, at a restaurant, he demanded the victim cash the repayment check early, stating, "If you don't cooperate, I am the Deputy Commissioner of the CIB. I can find witnesses anytime to create a statement to nail you, whether it's true or false, and I will definitely get you locked up for fraud." The victim, terrified, arranged for repayment three days later.

The prosecutors concluded their investigation last December, finding that Huang had committed the crime of intimidation by a public official intentionally using the power and opportunity of his office, and requested the court to impose a heavier sentence. The Taipei District Court announced its verdict today, sentencing Huang Chien-jung to 7 months in prison for intimidation. The court has not yet explained the facts of the crime and the reasons for the sentence. (Editor: Hsiao Po-wen) 1150609