Stealing anime figures from claw machine nets 3-month sentence

A man in Keelung, Taiwan, has been sentenced to three months in prison, convertible to a fine, for stealing anime figures from a claw machine. The incident occurred on the evening of April 10 last year when the man, identified by the surname Lin, entered a claw machine arcade.

Lin noticed several "Ichiban Kuji" (一番賞) Dragon Ball figures displayed on top of a machine. Disregarding the proper acquisition rules, he proceeded to steal them. The estimated market value of the stolen figures was around NT$2,000.

The owner of the claw machines, identified by the surname Chen, discovered the figures were missing and reviewed surveillance footage. He subsequently reported the theft to the police. Authorities identified Lin and summoned him for questioning. During the investigation, Lin admitted to stealing the figures.

Prior to his sentencing, Lin reached a settlement with Chen, compensating him NT$2,200. Despite the settlement and his remorse, the court found Lin guilty of theft. Considering his previous theft convictions, the judge imposed the three-month prison sentence, which can be commuted to a fine of NT$90,000. The court noted his repeated offenses and arbitrary theft of another's property.