Kaohsiung City Councilor Huang Shaoting posted NT$1.5 million bail for assistant fee fraud. Central News Agency CNA

Kuomintang Councilor Huang Shaoting Charged with Fraud

Kaohsiung, Taiwan – On November 28, 2024, Kuomintang City Councilor Huang Shaoting was officially charged with corruption and fraud involving 14.55 million yuan in assistant fees. The charges stem from accusations of fraudulent claims for assistant subsidies since December 2013. Prosecutors allege that Huang manipulated subsidy declarations using relatives and associates, resulting in significant overcharges.

Huang has served multiple terms on the Kaohsiung City Council. Authorities claim he orchestrated a scheme involving six individuals, including his wife, to exploit assistant fee subsidies. The total claimed fraudulently includes approximately 13.095 million yuan for assistants and 1.455 million yuan for low-paying and high-paying roles.

In a court session, the prosecution highlighted Huang’s potential flight risk, noting that he left for China shortly before the investigation commenced. He returned to Taiwan the day after his scheduled flight. Prosecutors assert that his family connections abroad and property ownership indicate a risk of evading justice.

During the hearing, Huang contended that staff involved in the subsidy claims had already confessed, reducing the risk of collusion. He explained a delay in his return was due to visiting a friend in China, asserting he did not intend to avoid arrest.

The judge, considering Huang’s guilty plea and willingness to repay improper gains, set his bail at 1.5 million yuan. He faces restrictions, including an eight-month travel ban and electronic check-ins every Thursday and Sunday. Huang must also use a designated mobile phone during this period.

This case highlights ongoing issues within public offices regarding accountability and misuse of public funds. The Kaohsiung District Prosecutor’s Office continues to seek justice against those involved in corrupt practices.