Improper Discipline Alleged at Miaoli Private Kindergarten: Magistrate Chung Tung-pin Demands Prosecution, Rejects Private Settlement

(CNA reporter Lu Gang-jun, Miaoli County, January 11) A private kindergarten in Miaoli County is under investigation for suspected improper discipline. County Magistrate Chung Tung-pin today ordered police to review surveillance footage and refer the case to the district prosecutor's office, emphasizing that the matter must not be settled privately. He stressed the need to prevent individuals with psychological instability from entering the education sector.

Media reports indicate that a parent recently posted in a Facebook community group, alleging that their child, while attending a kindergarten in Miaoli, suffered improper treatment by childcare staff, including being tied by the hands with rope, pulled to the point of falling, and having pants placed over their head.

In response, the Miaoli County Government's Education Department, through a written statement, confirmed that it has accepted the complaint and launched an investigation. If the investigation team verifies the allegations and the county's Committee for Determining Violations by Childcare Personnel confirms the findings, disciplinary actions will be taken according to regulations. The kindergarten stated that the teacher involved has been suspended and is cooperating with the authorities' investigation.

During today's county affairs meeting, Magistrate Chung emphasized that the Education Department's administrative investigation is insufficient. He insisted the entire case be referred to prosecutors, stating that private settlements are absolutely unacceptable. He noted that the teacher's actions severely infringed upon personal freedom and instructed the county police to immediately review all relevant data, list the individual as a suspect, and refer the case to the prosecutor's office for criminal investigation.

Chung stated that such despicable behavior by educators must not be tolerated. If clear criminal facts are established, legal action must be taken to prevent individuals with psychological abnormalities from entering the education field. He also instructed the Education Department to arrange expert psychological counseling for the abused children. (Edited by Lin Shu-hui) 1150811