Hualien:A man has been sentenced to death by the Hualien District Court for the murder and sexual assault of a female junior high school teacher last year.

According to Focus Taiwan, the incident occurred on May 17, 2025, when the 29-year-old victim, identified by her surname Tsai, was discovered dead in her rented room at a local church. The investigation revealed signs of bruising around her neck.

The perpetrator, identified by his surname Liu, was 26 at the time of the crime. He broke into Tsai's dormitory room, sexually assaulted her, and strangled her after she rejected his romantic advances. Following the attack, Liu stole several of her personal items, including credit cards and other belongings.

In addition to the death sentence, Liu received a separate seven-month prison term for burglary. Although Article 20 of the Criminal Code allows for reduced sentences for individuals with hearing and speech impairments like Liu, the court maintained the death sentence, emphasizing Liu's criminal responsibility.

The ruling by the district court is subject to appeal.