By KHT Staff. AI illustration image.
KAOHSIUNG — Those in Taiwan arguing for harsher penalties for serious child abuse offenses will likely be pleased after the High Court Kaohsiung Branch upheld a cumulative prison sentence of 663 years and nine months for a Pingtung father convicted of sexually abusing his three daughters over several years.
The China Times report said the man, identified by the pseudonym A-chih (阿智), was convicted by the Pingtung District Court of 175 offenses involving his daughters between 2018 and 2024. The court found that the victims were all under 14 at the time.
Each offense carried a sentence ranging from three years and eight months to eight years, producing a cumulative total of 663 years and nine months.
Under Taiwan’s Criminal Code, however, the maximum combined enforceable term for fixed-term imprisonment is capped at 30 years.
Via Lawplayer.com
If multiple fixed-term imprisonment sentences are pronounced, the term to be executed shall be set at no less than the longest individual sentence and no more than the combined total of the sentences. However, it may not exceed 30 years.
The man appealed, arguing that he had admitted the offenses in court, spared his daughters from testifying, and should therefore receive a lighter sentence. He also argued that his conduct did not involve severe force and asked for mediation.
The High Court rejected the appeal, saying the man had violated his most basic duty as a father and caused severe harm to his children.
The court also noted that he had not reached a settlement with the victims or provided compensation. It said the first-instance sentences were already within a low sentencing range for the offenses and were fair and appropriate.
The case can still be appealed.
People in Taiwan can report suspected child abuse or sexual assault by calling 110 or 113.
