Self-proclaimed “superstar celebrity”, 41-year-old Kurt Tay Foo Wei, was back in court earlier today (11 December) with a lawyer that he had newly hired, Mr. Rohit Kumar Singh from Regal Law, as he is set to face additional charges, according to Channel NewsAsia.
Tay’s legal troubles began when he was charged with distributing an obscene photo and video of a woman performing an explicit act, to a Telegram group without her consent.
Legal Proceedings and Adjournment
During Monday’s court appearance, Mr. Singh, Tay’s new lawyer, sought an adjournment and requested dispensation for Tay’s attendance.
This legal maneuver raises questions about the strategy behind handling the case. The judge granted the request but emphasized Tay’s and his bailor’s presence if new charges are brought forth.
The prosecution, citing unpreparedness, requested a four-week adjournment to introduce additional charges.
Public Reaction and Courtroom Dynamics
The public gallery witnessed a smaller crowd compared to Tay’s previous hearing. However, the atmosphere remained charged, with a few individuals waiting for Tay outside, smartphones raised.
Outside the courtroom, a heckler was seen filming Tay and hurling vulgarities at him as the latter hurried away from the scene.
The heckler was then confronted by another man, who appeared to be Tay’s father, who shouted vulgarities at the heckler in response, before they headed for a taxi that was waiting for them.
Right before getting into the taxi, Tay then took the opportunity to shout “F YOU” at the heckler before leaving.
Earlier tried to find a free lawyer
Existing legal troubles
Tay was earlier charged on 27 October this year for his offence of distributing an obscene photo and video of a woman performing an explicit act, to a Telegram group without her consent.
Following his court appearance, he has since taken to social media to appeal for donations from the public, so that he can hire a lawyer for his court case.
He also shed light on his situation, saying that he needs the money urgently and had been “sabotaged” by some “cb kia, some pubor kia”.
He says that the money raised will be used by him to hire a “professional lawyer” for his court case as well as to “sue someone and not for other purpose.”
He said that “this someone want to destroy my life” as he reiterated his need for money, adding that “it’s not easy to go strike 4D 1st prize”.
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Potential Consequences
If convicted of distributing intimate material without a woman’s consent, Tay could face significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years, fines, caning, or a combination of these punishments. There is also the possibility of additional charges under the Protection from Harassment Act.
The legal saga will continue with Tay scheduled to return to court on December 11. This upcoming hearing holds the potential for new developments and additional charges, adding further complexity to the case.