Former actor Ian Fang, 35, was sentenced to 40 months’ jail after pleading guilty to multiple charges involving a 15-year-old minor. The case, which has garnered significant attention, saw Fang facing three charges of sexual penetration among other related charges.
Fang, whose registered name is Fang Wei Jie, was found guilty of three charges under the Penal Code. On 19 May 2024, after a gag order was lifted, his identity was made public. He also faced charges of obstructing justice and stalking.
Charges and Sentencing Details
Fang pleaded guilty to sexual offences involving a minor, and though there were discussions around the legal implications of Section 376A, he was ultimately sentenced under 376A(2)(b), which does not include caning as a punishment.
Legal Perspectives
The case has raised questions about prosecutorial discretion. Notably, Fang’s lawyer, Noelle Teoh, argued against disclosing Fang’s identity to protect the victim, stating that doing so could lead to her identification. However, the prosecution felt that measures had been taken to minimize any revealing details.
- Charges: 3 counts of sexual penetration
- Other charges: 1 count of obstructing justice, 1 count of stalking
- Maximum penalty under Section 376A(2)(b): Up to 10 years’ jail
Impact on Victim
The victim has been protected by a gag order, which remains in place to prevent her identification. She expressed that despite the emotional turmoil, she has become “emotionally stronger” and is prepared to face the outcomes of potential identification.
Context of the Case
Fang was an acting teacher at a child modelling school, which makes the case particularly troubling. The circumstances of the relationship were scrutinized to assess whether they constituted an exploitative situation under the law.
While the law has provisions for caning in certain cases, this matter fell under a categorisation that made caning inappropriate. This has sparked debates about the adequacy of current penal provisions related to sexual offences committed against minors.