After a night of drinking at Zouk, a nightclub in Clarke Quay, Singapore, a disturbing incident unfolded. Ong Jun Yong, having consumed more than eight glasses of alcohol, allegedly molested a woman by squeezing her chest under her dress. This article delves into the legal aspects and accountability surrounding the incident.
Background of the Incident
According to a judgment released on 22 January earlier this month, on the night of November 23, 2019, Ong and the victim, who were not acquainted, were separately enjoying the evening with their groups at Zouk. Seated at adjacent tables, their paths crossed, leading to an alleged molestation incident.
Around 2:30 am, the victim, standing near her table, felt someone slip their hand into her dress, squeezing her left chest. Startled, she turned to identify Ong, who covered his face and quickly retreated to a sofa.
Upon realizing the molestation, the victim immediately informed her friend, leading to a confrontation with Ong. Zouk’s bouncers intervened, and the police were called to address the escalating situation.
Ong’s Claim of Memory Loss
During the trial, Ong claimed an “alcoholic blackout,” insisting he did not recall the incident. Discrepancies in his statements about alcohol consumption raised questions about the validity of this defense.
Despite Ong’s denial and claims of mistaken identity by his defense, the judge found the victim’s account unusually convincing. Two witnesses further supported her version, leading to the dismissal of alternative explanations.
Ong was found guilty of outrage of modesty. The judge emphasized Ong’s awareness of wrongdoing, citing his actions to avoid identification and escape during and after the incident.
Conviction for outrage of modesty carries potential penalties, including imprisonment for up to three years, fines, caning, or a combination of these. The severity of consequences underscores the gravity of such offenses.
He will be sentenced at another date.