HSINCHU (TVBS News) — Taiwan's second-highest judicial authority has imposed an eight-month travel ban on the mayor of a major technology hub as she faces serious corruption allegations. The Taiwan High Court (台灣高等法院) has barred Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao (高虹安) from leaving the island nation until Dec. 21, according to media reports Thursday (April 24).
Court officials emphasized that the travel restriction stems from an ongoing investigation into alleged fraudulent activities committed while Kao served in the Legislative Yuan, Taiwan's parliament. Judges pointed to "substantial evidence" suggesting criminal conduct, referencing her earlier conviction under the "Anti-Corruption Act" (貪污治罪條例), Taiwan's primary anti-graft legislation, which resulted in a seven-year, four-month prison sentence for embezzlement of public funds.
The judicial panel's ruling highlighted several flight risk factors, including Kao's extensive network developed during her political career and her education abroad. Despite her current suspension from mayoral duties, the court determined these connections could facilitate an attempt to evade justice. The travel prohibition represents what the court called "a necessary equilibrium" between protecting judicial proceedings and respecting individual liberties. Judges underscored their concern that the gravity of the charges and potential penalties might motivate Kao to flee Taiwan rather than face further legal consequences. ★
