MIAOLI COUNTY, Taiwan — November 10, 2025
A factory worker in Miaoli County, identified by his surname Chen, has been sentenced to four years and ten months in prison after being convicted of exploiting a minor he met through the online social app WEPLAY, the Miaoli District Court announced in its recent ruling.
Incident Overview
According to court findings, Chen met a girl referred to as “Xiaohua” (a pseudonym), who was under 14 years old at the time, through the app. Despite knowing her age, he invited her out twice in July 2023, arranging late-night meetings at an Earth God Temple in Miaoli.
Investigators found that the meetings took place around 11 p.m., and inappropriate acts were carried out in the temple’s public restroom.
Mother’s Complaint and Investigation
The case came to light after Xiaohua’s mother discovered the situation and immediately reported it to the police. Chen denied any form of abuse, insisting that he and the girl had only met once and merely shared brief physical affection.
However, the police investigation uncovered a series of chat messages between Chen and the victim, revealing conversations that contradicted his denial. The messages indicated that Chen was aware of the victim’s young age and acknowledged inappropriate contact in their exchanges.
Court Decision
During the trial, the Miaoli District Court rejected Chen’s claim that no misconduct occurred. The presiding judge stated that if their interaction was limited to simple gestures such as hugging, it could have taken place outside the temple rather than inside a dark restroom late at night.
The court found Chen guilty of two counts of violating laws protecting minors and sentenced him to three years and ten months for each count, to be served concurrently, resulting in a total imprisonment of four years and ten months.
Authorities’ Statement
Law enforcement officials emphasized that Taiwan maintains strict legal measures against the exploitation of minors, particularly involving online communication platforms. Authorities continue to urge parents to monitor children’s online activities and report any suspicious behavior to protect them from digital exploitation.
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