On the 18th, the Criminal Division 3 of the Seoul High Court (Presiding Judge Lee Chang-hyung) held a hearing to decide on the appeal of Don Spike, who was indicted on charges of violating the Act on Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes (Hyungjeong).
On this day, the prosecution pointed out that he had taken the drug 30 times by the time of his arrest and that he was in possession of enough drugs to be administered more than 3,000 times. He also pointed out, “The defendant has a great influence on the public as a celebrity.”
The prosecution then pointed out circumstances suspected of attempting to conceal assets, such as copyright transfer, and said, "There is a history of similar crimes, and there is a very high risk of repeat offenses in the future," and "His attitude after the crime was also very poor."
Don Spike was given the opportunity to speak and said, "Even though I should be an example to society, I have caused pain and disappointment to my family, acquaintances, and people who support me. I am deeply reflecting and I will definitely recover from my addiction."
Don Spike was arrested and indicted in October last year on charges of purchasing 45 million won worth of Philopon on nine occasions and administering the drug 14 times since the end of 2021. He is also accused of giving methamphetamine and ecstasy to other people seven times and possessing 20 grams worth of methamphetamine. This amounts to approximately 667 doses based on a typical dose of Philopon (0.03g).
The first trial sentenced him to three years in prison and five years of probation, and ordered him to pay an additional fine of 39,857,500 won, undergo 120 hours of probation and community service, and take 80 hours of drug treatment classes.
The second trial sentencing date is set for the 15th of next month.
Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr