A shocking case of domestic violence in Taiwan has made headlines after a 32-year-old man allegedly assaulted his 75-year-old father on Father’s Day and forced him to kneel before the family’s ancestral shrine.
The incident took place in Zhukeng Township, Chiayi County, where local police responded to a distress call on 8 August. Upon arrival, officers found the elderly victim with head injuries and multiple bruises, while his son reportedly shouted at him not to stand up or speak to the police.
Authorities have identified the suspect only by his surname, Lin. He is known to have a history of aggression towards family members, with previous reports of domestic abuse. Police say he has a record of alcohol abuse and has often been violent when under the influence.
History of Abuse and Police Intervention
Investigations revealed that Lin had lived with his father in an old family home for years. Relatives had previously applied for restraining orders, but the victim had never enforced them, reportedly out of fear and a sense of family obligation.
Lin told police that he would lash out when his father did not follow instructions, citing exhaustion from heavy manual work and caregiving responsibilities. He claimed to have intended to discuss alternative care arrangements with his siblings but lost control on the day of the assault.
Police arrested Lin at the scene on suspicion of assault, unlawful confinement, and violating Taiwan’s Domestic Violence Prevention Act. An emergency protection order was secured for the victim, and social services placed him in a temporary shelter where he is receiving medical treatment and support.
Court Orders Remand and Legal Proceedings
Prosecutors argued that Lin posed a danger to the victim and requested his remand in custody, which was approved by the Chiayi District Court. The case is now under formal investigation, with possible charges that could lead to a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenge of domestic abuse cases in Asia, where cultural norms often prevent victims from speaking out. Authorities in Taiwan have urged the public to report suspected violence immediately, stressing that police and social services are equipped to intervene before such situations escalate into life-threatening harm.