Taiwan Court Acquits Fish Vendor Who Splashed Water on Police After 8 Fines

A fish vendor in Keelung, Taiwan, has been found not guilty of charges including obstructing public duty and insulting officials, following an incident where he splashed dirty water on a police officer. The vendor, identified by the surname Pan, had been repeatedly fined for illegal street vending.

The court's decision came after Pan was issued eight fines by police officers for setting up his stall in violation of regulations. In response to the accumulated penalties, Pan splashed water from his hands onto an officer's face. Prosecutors had charged him with obstructing public duty, insulting a public official, and public insult.

However, the Keelung District Court determined that Pan's actions were a momentary expression of emotion and did not reach the level of "force" or significantly disrupt the officer's duties. The court also referenced constitutional rulings, stating that the state should tolerate negative remarks or actions arising from citizens' frustration with being ticketed. The judge found that the act was brief and did not substantially impair police operations or demean the officer's reputation. The prosecution's evidence was deemed insufficient to prove the alleged offenses, leading to the acquittal under the principle of presumed innocence. The prosecution may appeal the ruling.

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The court's decision came after Pan was issued eight fines by police officers for setting up his stall in violation of regulations. In response to the accumulated penalties, Pan splashed water from his hands onto an officer's face.