In a recent turn of events, the case of the Singaporean cyclist who allegedly jumped on a car bonnet during an altercation along East Coast Road has taken a surprising twist.
Nicolette Tan Shi-en, 32, initially faced charges for a rash act endangering the safety of others but now finds herself accused of causing harassment through “threatening behavior.”
Recap
The confrontation between cyclist Nicolette Tan and motorist Elaine Michele Ow occurred on a fateful afternoon, June 2, 2023, along the bustling East Coast Road.
Videos capturing the incident quickly spread across social media platforms, painting a vivid picture of the altercation. In these videos, Tan could be seen allegedly confronting Ow and then, shockingly, jumping onto the bonnet of Ow’s car.
Ow, on her part, was captured on video allegedly driving off with Tan precariously perched on her car’s bonnet. The dramatic confrontation led to both parties facing legal consequences.
Initial Charges
On June 7, 2023, both Nicolette Tan and Elaine Michele Ow were slapped with charges of committing a rash act endangering the personal safety of others, a serious offense that carries significant penalties.
Additionally, Tan faced another charge of obstructing the public way by blocking Ow’s vehicle during the altercation.
A Change in Legal Course
However, the legal landscape shifted on September 7, 2023, when court records revealed that the charge of committing a rash act against Nicolette Tan was withdrawn. Instead, Tan now faces a harassment charge.
The revised charge sheet alleges that Tan used threatening behavior toward Ow by stopping her bicycle in front of Ow’s car, aggressively confronting her, and even opening Ow’s car door.
What Lies Ahead
The next milestone in this legal saga is the pre-trial conferences scheduled for both Tan and Ow, set to commence on October 6, 2023.
For the original charge of committing a rash act endangering the safety of others, Nicolette Tan could have faced imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of up to S$2,500.
However, the revised harassment charge carries even steeper penalties. If convicted of harassment, Tan may face imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of up to S$5,000.