RSAF Lieutenant-Colonel, a Helicopter Pilot, Admitted to Molesting a Student in NTU Dorm

By
Shernice Sim
-

Air Force Colonel’s Predatory Actions at Nanyang Technological University Lead to Legal Confrontation

We thought NUS was the school notorious for peeping tom cases and sexual misconduct, it appears that another esteemed university is now causing apprehension among women.

A Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) lieutenant-colonel and helicopter pilot, admitted guilt in court for molesting a 21-year-old female student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in 2022.

On 10 January 2024, the culprit, 47-year-old Neo Aik Chiao, pleaded guilty to one charge of using criminal force to outrage modesty, and another for criminal trespass.

The court documents reveal that Neo unlawfully entered two dormitory rooms on 13 November 2022, targeting two female students aged 18 and 21.

The location and victims’ identity remain under a gag order to protect their privacy.

According to The Straits Times, Neo’s sentencing, scheduled for 21 February, will also consider the second criminal trespass charge. Neo faces potential imprisonment, fines, caning, or a combination of these penalties.

After the charges were made on Neo in December 2023, the Ministry of Defence promptly suspended him from all duties.

The ministry also announced that further actions would be contingent on the investigation’s findings.

The Breakdown of the Crime

Legal representatives for Neo, Mr Sunil Sudheesan and Ms Joyce Khoo, disclosed that Neo, distressed since his godfather’s death in June 2022, sought emotional solace at NTU, his alma mater, known for fond memories and familiarity.

(I mean – just a suggestion here – how about seeking a damn therapist instead?)

The court proceedings revealed the victim’s ordeal in the early morning of 13 November 2023. Neo, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, entered the victim’s room and locked the door. The victim had been in her room using her phone at that time. 

According to Lianhe Zaobao, the culprit first claimed that he had been exhausted from climbing up to her room, and requested water from the victim, to which she pointed out the water dispensers located outside of her dorm room.

Despite her suggestion, Neo remained in the room and eventually propositioned her with a monetary offer of S$1000.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Wong Shiau Yin detailed how Neo made inappropriate advances, including touching the victim’s thigh and arm.

Despite her rejection, Neo persisted, escalating the distressing situation. The victim, fearing for her safety, called a friend for help, prompting Neo to unlock the door and flee the scene.

A mental health report highlighted Neo’s intoxication during the incident but did not find him of unsound mind at the time.

Additionally, the charges indicate another instance where Liang unlawfully entered the dormitory room of an 18-year-old female student. 

In the courtroom, the prosecution argued for a minimum 12-week jail term, emphasizing the gravity of the offenses committed on private property during the early hours.

Instead, Neo’s defense proposed a S$10,000 fine, citing the isolated and uncharacteristic nature of the incident, with brief and non-invasive contact.

As the legal process unfolds, concerns about campus safety intensify, prompting NTU authorities to review security measures.

The outcome of Neo’s sentencing will undoubtedly have repercussions on the ongoing dialogue about safety and vigilance within academic institutions.

Here’s a simplified summary of the South Korea martial law that even a 5-year-old would understand:

Read Also:

Advertisements
 
Shernice Sim