NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The New Taipei City Government withdrew on Thursday (July 13) the revocation of a kindergarten's license after a criminal investigation concluded a day earlier that there was no evidence of improper treatment of the children.
Speaking at a press conference, New Taipei Deputy Mayor Liu He-jan said that if any claims for state compensation arise in the future, the city government will provide full assistance.
Liu explained that no evidence was found to substantiate any improper disciplinary actions. Moreover, hair samples from all 36 children tested negative for harmful substances.
Liu emphasized that the investigation report clearly stated that no colorful pills, referred to as "rainbow candy" in public discourse, were discovered.
Some parents accused the kindergarten staff of administering unknown substances concealed within "rainbow cups" and coated as "rainbow candy" to the children after hearing their children's remarks.
Chang Ming-wen, Commissioner of the New Taipei City Education Department, stated that the administrative investigation involved 15 special meetings and interviews with 52 relevant individuals. The criminal investigation resulted in a non-prosecution decision. Therefore, the city government will proactively withdraw all administrative penalties.
Liu reiterated that the public discourse surrounding the alleged drugging case had deeply undermined trust in society, urging people to stop spreading rumors and misinformation.
However, some individuals remain skeptical of the findings, highlighting that young children's memories are easily influenced, thus urging caution when considering their statements.
They also note a perceived double standard in the investigation, as it selectively considered the statements of children who denied hearing or experiencing physical punishment while disregarding those who had mentioned it earlier.
The kindergarten said they would improve their educational practices to regain parents' trust.
