Child Abuse and Fraud Charges
Prosecutors: "Settlement Unlikely"
Jeon: "Deeply Reflecting on Mistakes"
The prosecution has requested a 5-year prison sentence for Jeon Cheong-jo (28), who was additionally indicted on charges including fraud and child abuse after committing an investment scam worth tens of billions of won by impersonating a third-generation chaebol heir.
On the 14th, at the first trial session presided over by Judge Lee Ho-dong of the Criminal Division 3 at the Seoul Eastern District Court, the prosecution asked the court to sentence Jeon to 5 years in prison.
On November 10th last year, Jeon Cheong-jo appeared at the Songpa Police Station in Seoul and was transferred to the Eastern District Prosecutors' Office. [Image source=Yonhap News]
According to the prosecution, Jeon is accused of assaulting and threatening A, a middle school student who is the nephew of former national fencing athlete Nam Hyun-hee (42), 16 times using the handle of a children's golf club. He is also charged with embezzling 125 million won from three individuals under the pretext of investment funds until August of last year.
In addition, Jeon is accused of defrauding 230 million won from four people he met through a dating app. The prosecution also applied charges of defamation against Jeon for impersonating the mentor of famous YouTuber B and spreading false information, damaging B's reputation.
Regarding the child abuse charges, the prosecution stated, "(Jeon) assaulted the victim child with a golf club and, after the investigation began, committed secondary harm by threatening the victim. The nature of the crime is severe."
Regarding the fraud and defamation charges, the prosecution explained the reasons for the sentence request, saying, "The crimes were committed for a luxurious lifestyle, and there are seven victims. Jeon has not reached any settlements with the victims, and the possibility of settlement is slim."
Jeon's defense acknowledged all charges and appealed for leniency. Jeon's lawyer said, "Please consider that Jeon admits to all the crimes and sincerely feels remorse toward the victims."
In his final statement, Jeon expressed, "I have belatedly realized my wrongdoings and am deeply reflecting on my past mistakes to live each day as a righteous and honest person. Although insufficient, I am spending time trying to make amends for the damages."
The court scheduled the sentencing for Jeon on the 4th of next month.
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