Prosecutors sought 12 years in prison for a couple in their 30s who tried to kill their elementary school-age daughter, citing financial hardship and depression, and then attempted to take their own lives, but all survived.
According to legal sources on the 19th, the 12th Criminal Division of the Daejeon District Court (Presiding Judge Kim Byeong-man, senior judge) held a sentencing hearing that day for a couple in their 30s, identified as A and B, who were indicted on charges including child abuse-murder.
Prosecutors asked the court to sentence A and B to 12 years in prison each. Prosecutors said, "Although the crime ended in an attempt, the guilt of parents who tried to take the life of their minor child, whom they are obligated to protect, is very grave," adding, "There were indications the defendants denied the allegations during the initial investigation, coordinated their stories with witnesses, or tried to destroy evidence."
Prosecutors also said, "The economic and psychological issues that led to the case have not been sufficiently resolved," and added, "It should also be considered that if the child returns to them, there remains a possibility of secondary harm such as re-abuse."
A and B pleaded for leniency. In a final statement, A said, "As parents, we did something we must never do to our child," and added, "No matter what hardships come, I will endure with my family in mind." A continued, "We are inadequate parents, but please show leniency so we can return to our daughter."
B also said, "I am deeply ashamed and sorry that, because life was hard, we hurt our beloved child and nearly took a precious life," adding, "From now on, no matter what difficulties come, I will not give up on life and will become a parent who helps our child."
The couple was arrested and indicted in January on charges of attempting to kill their daughter and then themselves, citing financial hardship and depression. The daughter is said to have since regained her health.
The court is scheduled to hand down a verdict for them at 2 p.m. on the 15th of next month.
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