A former teacher at Kinderland Preschool has been sentenced to 17 months and two weeks in jail after pleading guilty to the abuse of four children, including severe incidents of force-feeding. Lin Min, 35, was held accountable for her actions, which included treating the children—aged between one and three—improperly in a situation that raised serious concerns over child welfare.
Details of the Abuse
In June 2023, videos surfaced online showing Lin’s shocking behaviour, sparking outrage among parents and the public alike. The most distressing incidents included:
- A 23-month-old girl was forced to lie down while Lin forcibly poured water into her mouth, causing the child to cough and choke.
- Another incident involved a 2-year-old boy, whom Lin manhandled by pushing him to the ground in an effort to make him drink water.
Witnesses reported that after these troubling experiences, the children exhibited signs of distress, with the girl waking up at night crying and articulating her fear of her teacher.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
During the court proceedings held on 13 March 2024, District Judge John Ng acknowledged the psychological trauma inflicted on the victims and the broader impact on their peers at the childcare centre. While Judge Ng recognised Lin did not exhibit malice, he described her actions as being characterised by a “clear disregard to the negative impact” on her students.
Lin’s sentence reflects a serious view of the offences under the law, where she could have faced up to eight years in prison or a fine up to S$8,000 (approximately US$6,000). Her previous clean record and guilty plea were factors that contributed to the somewhat lighter sentence.
Impact on Community and Future Implications
Following the revelation of Lin’s misconduct, the Early Childhood Development Agency has barred her from any future employment in the preschool sector. The case has underscored the pressing need for stringent oversight in childcare settings, emphasising the importance of safeguarding our youngest citizens.
As Lin awaits the execution of her sentence, she has requested a one-week deferment, citing the need to arrange care for her own child. This case serves as a stark reminder of the vital trust placed in educators and the grave responsibility they bear.