Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Hong Kong Court Sets Monday Verdict in Jimmy Lai National Security Case

The ruling will cap a 156-day trial under Beijing's national security law that could send the 78-year-old Apple Daily founder to prison for life.

Overview

  • A judiciary notice says the High Court will deliver its verdict on Dec. 15 in Jimmy Lai's case.
  • Lai has pleaded not guilty to two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious material.
  • Prosecutors allege he used Apple Daily to support seditious publications between April 2019 and June 2021 and to seek foreign sanctions between July 2020 and June 2021.
  • The case has drawn international criticism, with the U.S. calling it politically motivated, while Chinese and Hong Kong officials insist the proceedings are fair.
  • Lai's family and lawyers report deteriorating health including diabetes and heart palpitations, and he has been in custody for more than 1,800 days.