Prosecution files appeal against sentences of 6 former CHC leaders: AGC

The Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) said on Monday (Jan 18) that prosecutors have filed an appeal against the sentences imposed on the six former City Harvest Church leaders who were convicted of misusing a total of $50 million in church funds.

In its statement, AGC said: "The prosecution will be proceeding with the appeal against the sentences imposed on the six accused persons, and we have accordingly filed our Petition of Appeal on Jan 15."

The Straits Times reported that the prosecution had called the sentences "manifestly inadequate," and that it wants harsher sentences to deter such crimes.

The six were found guilty of misappropriating $24 million in church funds to further the music career of founder Kong Hee's wife Ho Yeow Sun, as well as using another $26 million to cover up the initial amount through sham investments in two companies owned by CHC supporters.

The accused include church founder and senior pastor Kong Hee, deputy senior pastor Tan Ye Peng, former church board member and chairman of CHC's investment committee John Lam Leng Hung, former church board and CHC investment committee member Chew Eng Han, and former finance managers Sharon Tan and Serina Wee.

On Nov 20 last year, they were sentenced to jail terms of between 21 months and eight years for criminal breach of trust and falsification of accounts, with Kong Hee receiving the heaviest sentence.

All six are currently out on bail and have filed appeals for their convictions and punishments.

minlee@sph.com.sg