Prosecution Appeals Yoo Ah-in's Sentence for Harsher Penalty
Sep 04, 2024
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On September 4, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office announced that it had appealed the initial trial decision, which imposed a one-year prison term and a fine of 2 million won on Yoo Ah-in for violating the Narcotics Control Act. The prosecution argued that the sentence was insufficient given the seriousness of Yoo's offenses. They noted that Yoo had habitually used and administered various drugs, including marijuana, propofol, and zolpidem, over an extended period and had obstructed justice by destroying evidence.
The prosecution also highlighted that the initial sentence was significantly less than their requested four-year prison term, and they are seeking a harsher penalty on appeal.
Previously, on September 3, Yoo Ah-in was sentenced to one year in prison and was arrested in court. The Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Department 25, under Judge Ji Gwi-yeon, imposed a one-year prison term, a 2 million won fine, and an additional fine of approximately 1.54 million won. Yoo was also ordered to complete an 80-hour drug rehabilitation education program. The court expressed concerns about the risk of recidivism, noting that Yoo's crimes involved exploiting loopholes in drug management regulations. The decision to arrest him in court was made to prevent the possibility of escape.
Following the sentencing, Yoo Ah-in expressed remorse, stating, "I'm sorry for causing concern and worry to many people." The prosecution had originally sought a four-year prison term, while Yoo Ah-in defended himself by saying, "I would like to deeply reflect on my wrongdoings and apologize. Through this incident, I have had the opportunity to reflect on my life and I pledge to live as a more responsible and mature person."
Yoo Ah-in was indicted without detention for the habitual administration of propofol on 181 occasions at hospitals in Seoul from September 2020 to March 2022. He is also accused of illegally purchasing 1,100 sleeping pills under another person's name on 44 occasions between May 2021 and August 2022. Additionally, he faces charges for smoking marijuana in the United States with four accomplices and teaching others to smoke.
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