New Taipei Netizen Sentenced to 50 Days Detention, 3 Years Probation for Suggesting PLA 'Behead' President

Central News Agency, New Taipei, May 25. A netizen in New Taipei City posted comments online this January suggesting that the "People's Liberation Army should emulate the US military and behead Lai Ching-te," leading to an indictment for the crime of intimidation and endangering safety. The judge ruled that the netizen acted recklessly due to dissatisfaction with the political situation, but considering the admission of guilt, sentenced the individual to 50 days of detention and 3 years of probation. According to the indictment, the netizen, surnamed Hsu, logged into the PTT bulletin board from his home in New Taipei City on the afternoon of January 3 and posted comments such as "I heard the PLA's strength is comparable to the US military; I suggest the PLA emulate the US military and behead President Lai," causing harm to President Lai. Police and prosecutors traced the case, identified Hsu, and prosecuted him under the Criminal Code for intimidation and endangering safety. After the trial at the New Taipei District Court, the judge ruled that Hsu did not think rationally and arbitrarily posted threatening comments online due to dissatisfaction with the political situation. He was sentenced to 50 days of detention, convertible to a fine of NT$1,000 per day, with 3 years of probation, during which he will be under protective supervision and must undergo 6 hours of legal education. The judge explained that Hsu's political leanings were too strong, leading to a momentary lapse in judgment. Considering he admitted to the crime and that short-term imprisonment would have limited corrective effect, a suspended sentence was granted to encourage him to be more cautious and law-abiding, which is more helpful in preventing recidivism.