Harrowing Case of Domestic Abuse
- Abuse Details: A Singaporean woman, Tan Siew Mei, age 41, has pleaded guilty to physically and verbally abusing her Indonesian domestic helper. The abuse included yanking the maid’s ponytail, slapping her face, and kicking her lower body.
- Verbal Assault: Tan’s abuse was not just physical; she also subjected the helper to verbal insults, calling her “stupid,” “rubbish,” and “not human.”
Discovery and Legal Proceedings
- Neighbor’s Intervention: The abuse came to light following an anonymous call to the police by a concerned neighbor.
- Evidence Tampering Attempt: Tan attempted to delete CCTV footage capturing the abuse but was unsuccessful.
- Charges and Plea: She faced five charges, including voluntarily causing hurt, causing distress with abusive language, and obstructing the course of justice, with another 17 charges under consideration.
Mental Health Contention
- Defense Argument: Tan’s defense argued that her actions were influenced by major depressive disorder.
- Prosecution Stance: The prosecution maintains that Tan is not clinically depressed. A Newton hearing will determine the validity of these mental health claims.
This case highlights the seriousness of domestic helper abuse and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals within households.
Also learn about Therapist Sentenced for Abusing Autistic Child.
