Former Taiwan Official Yi-Jung Hsieh Pleads Guilty in Corruption Case, Faces Bail and Electronic Monitoring

Former Labor Department Official Admits Guilt in Workplace Bullying and Embezzlement Scandal

In a significant development from Taiwan, former head of the Northern Branch of the Labor Department's Workforce Development Agency, Yi-Jung Hsieh, has pleaded guilty to charges of corruption, embezzlement, and workplace bullying. The accusations against Hsieh include fostering a hostile work environment that allegedly led to the suicide of a subordinate. She is also accused of illegally acquiring gifts purchased with the employment security fund and favoring specific companies in bidding processes.

Last week, prosecutors charged Hsieh with violations of the Criminal Code for leaking information and the Act on Punishment of Corruption, including charges of benefiting others and misappropriating public property. Today, the case was transferred to the New Taipei District Court for review. During the court hearing, Hsieh admitted to all the charges, visibly distraught throughout the proceedings.

Given her full confession and the fact that she had already returned the money acquired through her crimes, the judge granted her bail of NT$1 million (approximately $31,000 USD). In addition to bail, Hsieh will be required to wear an electronic ankle monitor for a period of eight months, during which time she is also restricted from leaving the country and from leaving her residence in the Sanchong District of New Taipei City. Hsieh expressed her gratitude to the court, continuing to cry even as the judge announced the bail decision.