Kang Hoon, known as 'BooTta,' co-operator of the Telegram 'Doctor's Room' along with Jo Joo-bin / Photo by Kang Jin-hyung aymsdream@
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] Kang Hoon (20), the second-in-command of the 'Telegram Doctor's Room,' known as 'Butta,' has requested Jo Joo-bin and Jo's ex-girlfriend as witnesses in the appeal trial.
On the 8th, the Seoul High Court Criminal Division 9 (Presiding Judge Moon Gwangseop) held the first appeal trial for Kang, who was indicted on charges including violation of the Act on the Protection of Children and Juveniles from Sexual Abuse (production and distribution of obscene materials).
Kang was prosecuted for conspiring with Jo in 2019 to threaten 18 victims, including 7 children and adolescents, to film and produce sexually exploitative videos, which were then sold and distributed on Telegram for profit. During the investigation, he was identified as a key accomplice who helped manage and operate the Doctor's Room from the early stages of Jo's production and distribution of sexually exploitative materials.
Previously, in the first trial, Kang pleaded for leniency, stating, "I only participated in the crime because Jo had a hold over me." However, the first trial court found most of his charges guilty and sentenced him to 15 years in prison.
On this day, Kang's defense requested Jo and Jo's ex-girlfriend, Ms. A, as witnesses for the appeal trial. The defense argued, "Ms. A's claim that she was threatened by Jo is similar in nature to Kang's claim that he was threatened by Jo."
The court decided to review the defense's opinion and determine whether to accept the witnesses.
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