Taiwan Man Threatens Arson Over iPhone 16, Attacks Court Officers

A man in Taiwan threatened his mother-in-law with arson if she refused to buy him an iPhone 16, leading to his arrest and subsequent assault on court officers. The incident unfolded when the man, identified as Mr. Cheng, demanded his wife's brother drive him home after failing to borrow money for the phone. He then used Line to call his wife, issuing the threat: "Tell your mom to buy me an iPhone 16, or I'll burn your house down." His wife, fearing for her safety, reported him to the police.

Following his arrest and transfer to a detention center, Cheng's behavior escalated. While awaiting a hearing, he began banging on the acrylic door of the holding cell and stripped naked. Three court officers entered with batons and restraints in an attempt to subdue him. Cheng then charged at one officer, pulling him into the cell and engaging in a 10-minute physical altercation with the three officers. Two officers sustained injuries, one with a wrist sprain and another with a finger strain.

During the trial, Cheng admitted to his actions. For the threat charge, he received a 20-day jail sentence, as he had reconciled with his wife and she withdrew her complaint. However, for obstructing justice, the court imposed a three-month prison sentence, citing his disregard for the law and public authority. The court noted his confession but emphasized the seriousness of his actions against law enforcement. The sentence is subject to appeal.

“

Tell your mom to buy me an iPhone 16, or I'll burn your house down.