Hsueh Shih-ling, Accused of Faking Hypertension to Evade Military Service, Pleads Not Guilty at First Hearing; Prosecutors Seek 2.5-Year Sentence

Central News Agency, New Taipei, 14th - Golden Bell Best Actor Hsueh Shih-ling is suspected of faking hypertension to evade military service. Due to his denial of the charges, prosecutors considered his attitude poor and indicted him, seeking a 2.5-year sentence. The New Taipei District Court held its first hearing today. The main suspect, Chen Chih-ming, pleaded guilty, while Hsueh Shih-ling continued to plead not guilty. After the hearing, he simply said, 'Thank you for your concern.'

The New Taipei District Court held a review hearing today, summoning the detained main suspect Chen Chih-ming and Hsueh Shih-ling. Chen Chih-ming admitted to the crime in court, while Hsueh Shih-ling continued to deny the charges. His defense lawyer stated that they would present their defense arguments at the next hearing. Because Hsueh Shih-ling pleaded not guilty, the judge announced that the case will proceed to a regular trial process.

Leaving the court, Hsueh Shih-ling told reporters that he had nothing to report at the moment and would make a statement to the judge at the formal hearing. He clasped his hands together and said, 'Thank you for your concern. I'm sorry for the trouble.'

According to the indictment, Hsueh Shih-ling allegedly spent NT$300,000 to hire the draft-dodging group's main suspect, Chen Chih-ming, to fake hypertension to evade military service. He was indicted by the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office in March for violating the Conscription Act. Prosecutors pointed out that although Hsueh Shih-ling turned himself in, he denied the charges after his arrival, was evasive about the case, and attempted to portray his draft evasion as merely being a victim of fraud. Due to his poor post-offense attitude, they are seeking a severe sentence of 2 years and 6 months or more. (Editor: Long Po-an) 1150514