SINGAPORE – A shocking case has concluded with a man receiving a staggering nine years, six months, and four weeks in prison after he attempted to rape a singer at a Thai disco back in 2018.

Yeo Zhuo Ping, aged 28, was also sentenced to six strokes of the cane and fined $8,500, a decision made on December 6, 2023.

Charges and Sentencing

Yeo faced a total of five charges: three relating to sexual offences against the victim, who at the time was 31 years old, and two related to drink driving and dangerous driving while out on bail. These driving offences resulted in a driving ban for three years following his release from prison.

Denial of Allegations

During the trial, Yeo adamantly denied the charges of attempted rape and sexual assault, claiming he was 'knocked out' and could not remember the events. However, the court found him guilty on August 20, 2023, after a thorough examination of the evidence.

Emotional Toll on the Victim

Prosecutors noted Yeo’s complete lack of remorse during the proceedings, emphasizing the emotional toll on the victim, who had to relive her trauma in court due to Yeo's decision to contest the charges. In his sentencing remarks, District Judge James Elisha Lee condemned Yeo's behavior, highlighting his baseless defense efforts that included unfounded allegations against law enforcement officers.

Details of the Incident

The events unfolded on August 6, 2018, when the victim, a singer, began her shift at the Thai disco. She was compensated through commissions from customers who purchased 'garlands' for her. Yeo visited the disco that night with a friend, where he purchased such a garland and spent the evening engaging with the victim.

After her shift ended in the early hours of August 7, Yeo persuaded the victim to join him for supper. However, the situation escalated when the victim chose to return home instead, as she had a flight to Bangkok later that day. Upon offering her a ride home, they arrived at a multi-storey car park, where Yeo attempted to force himself on her.

The victim bravely resisted his advances, pleading for her release. Security footage later revealed Yeo’s erratic behavior as he left the scene. The victim reported the assault to the police before her flight to Bangkok and upon returning four days later, underwent a medical examination that confirmed injuries consistent with sexual assault.

Trial Defense and Verdict

In a shocking defense during the trial, Yeo accused the victim of fabricating her claims to stay in Singapore and continue working while also claiming police misconduct in the investigation. Deputy Public Prosecutor Christina Koh succinctly countered his assertions, questioning Yeo’s self-serving narrative.

As the court handed down its verdict, District Judge Lee dismissed Yeo’s claims against the police and victim, firmly stating that the evidence against him was compelling and his arguments were unsubstantiated.

Public Reaction

This case has garnered significant media attention and raised questions about safety in nightlife establishments, the handling of sexual assault cases, and the importance of victim support. As such incidents highlight ongoing societal issues regarding women’s safety, many are calling for enhanced protective measures and stricter penalties for offenders.

Conclusion

Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing story and more high-profile criminal cases in Singapore as the community seeks justice!