Jimmy Lai, the founder of Next Digital, along with three companies affiliated with Apple Daily, is facing charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces. The trial lasted 156 days and the verdict was delivered today (Dec. 15) at 10 AM at the West Kowloon Magistrates' Court (acting as the High Court), presided over by a panel of three National Security Law-designated judges: Madam Justice Esther Toh, Judge Susana Maria D'Almada Remedios, and Justice Alex Lee.
According to reporters from DotDotNews observing in the courtroom, Lai appeared in a khaki suit jacket and green shirt, wearing black-rimmed glasses, and was escorted to the court by correctional officers. Before taking his seat, Lai nodded and waved to friends and relatives in the public gallery, including his wife. His overall condition appeared normal, showing no signs of the physical weakness reported in earlier articles.
Earlier, Lai's daughter, Claire, stated in an interview with foreign media that her father's health was "deteriorating." The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government subsequently issued a statement clarifying that Lai has received appropriate medical treatment and care while in prison, asserting that the media's claims are "entirely unfounded."
The case was heard by designated judges Madam Justice Esther Toh, Judge Susana Maria D'Almada Remedios, and Justice Alex Lee. The prosecution team was led by Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Anthony Chau, while the defense team included barrister Steven Kwan, senior counsel Robert Pang, and New Zealand barrister Marc Corlett, who is qualified to practice in Hong Kong.
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