A Kaohsiung child abuse case has shocked Taiwan after prosecutors recommended a 12-year sentence. The man, 26-year-old Cheng, allegedly slammed his girlfriend’s four-year-old son against a wall, causing severe brain damage. This case marks the first prosecution under the new Kai Kai amendments aimed at strengthening punishments for child abuse.
Cheng reportedly abused his girlfriend’s two sons, aged four and ten, multiple times between February and mid-September. He claimed to use punishments as “games” or to teach lessons, according to prosecutors. The younger boy suffered bruising, contusions, and eventually massive brain injuries that left him in a vegetative state.
On September 15, the four-year-old allegedly disrespected Cheng during a punishment routine, prompting him to grab the boy and repeatedly slam his head. The child experienced severe headaches for three days before collapsing and being hospitalized. Doctors found brain swelling, internal bleeding, and herniation, resulting in permanent loss of speech, taste, and smell.
Cheng denied slamming the child’s head but admitted to hitting the boys with a wooden stick. The mother, unaware at the time, was showering during the incident. A panel of child protection experts confirmed the injuries as evidence of child abuse. Investigators also discovered the boy had attended kindergarten multiple times with visible bruising that went unreported by teachers.
Authorities placed the younger boy in protective custody, while the older child received separate care. This prosecution highlights Taiwan’s strengthened legal framework under the Kai Kai amendments, which require a minimum ten-year sentence for seriously injuring children under seven. The amendments were introduced after the high-profile death of a one-year-old known as Kai Kai in December 2023.
Experts say the child abuse case demonstrates ongoing challenges in preventing domestic abuse and ensuring timely intervention. Prosecutors emphasized that sustained physical and psychological harm justifies severe sentencing. The case may prompt authorities to review school reporting procedures and enhance child protection measures nationwide.
The Kaohsiung District Prosecutors’ Office indicated the case sets a precedent for enforcing stricter child protection laws, sending a strong message against abuse. The severity of the injuries and public outrage underscores the importance of vigilant child welfare enforcement.
This child abuse case underlines the critical role of legal reform and community awareness in safeguarding vulnerable children across Taiwan.
