Attempted Murder of Middle School Girl by High School Student Results in Increased Sentence in Appeal
A high school student who attempted to murder a middle school girl during her commute because she rejected his expression of affection was handed a heavier sentence in the appeal court.
On the 18th, the 1st Criminal Division of the Suwon High Court (Judge Shin Hyun-il) overturned the original verdict in the appeal of A, who was charged with attempted murder, and sentenced him to a maximum of 9 years and a minimum of 6 years in prison.
In the first trial, A was sentenced to a maximum of 8 years and a minimum of 5 years, but the appeal court increased the sentence considering the motive and method of the crime, as well as the victim’s suffering.
The court pointed out that "the motivation behind the defendant’s attack on the victim is highly blameworthy because it stems solely from the fact that she did not reciprocate his affection, and there are no mitigating circumstances to be found."
High Blameworthiness
Planned and Brutal Crime… Lack of Remorse Also a Problem
The court also noted, "Considering that the attack was concentrated on the victim's head, face, and neck, and that the defendant had prepared weapons in advance, his intent to kill appears to be strong, and the mental and physical pain suffered by the victim is likely to be severe."
In particular, the court expressed doubt that A could be sincerely reflecting on his wrongdoing, citing that he "showed no efforts toward recovery for the victim and instead attempted to mitigate his responsibility by using his psychiatric history as an excuse."
A is accused of attacking B, a girl who was commuting to school, with a blunt object and wielding a weapon to kill her on the morning of August 19 of last year, at 8:16 AM, near a middle school in Sangnok District, Ansan City.
Fortunately, although B lost a considerable amount of blood, it was reported that her life was not in danger due to prompt medical treatment.
According to the investigation, A is said to have known B as an alumnus of the same middle school, having been acquainted with her as upper and lower classmates for some time. This incident has once again raised awareness in society about the seriousness of dating violence among teenagers and stalking crimes.
Seriousness of Dating Violence and Stalking Crimes Among Teenagers
Image Source: Material photo to aid understanding of the article / gettyimagesbank
