The CEO of an entertainment agency, who was indicted on charges of purchasing marijuana from an affiliated celebrity, was sentenced to a suspended prison term in the first trial.
The Criminal Division 24 of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judge Choi Kyung-seo) on the 17th sentenced Choi (43), who was detained and indicted for violating the Narcotics Control Act, to 10 months in prison with a 2-year suspension and a fine of 3 million won. Additionally, probation was ordered along with 40 hours of drug treatment lectures.
The court pointed out, "The defendant committed the crime again despite having a prior record of imprisonment for the same offense in 2011," and added, "It appears that he is still exposed to curiosity or temptation regarding drugs."
The court explained the sentencing by stating, "However, the defendant acknowledged his wrongdoing and showed a remorseful attitude, and the fact that he did not smoke the purchased marijuana was considered a favorable circumstance."
Choi, the CEO of the entertainment agency, was brought to trial on January 26 on charges of purchasing marijuana from the affiliated singer Ahn.
Ahn, who sold marijuana to Choi, was indicted on charges of purchasing and smoking marijuana and cultivating it at his home. He was sentenced to 2 years in prison with a 3-year suspension in the first trial and has appealed, currently undergoing the second trial.
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