Hong Kong judges have completed closing arguments but have not set a verdict date; both parties will be informed in good time. Previously the judges indicated a verdict might come in October. The 77-year-old defendant was arrested in 2020 after Beijing imposed a national security law and has been held in custody since. Apple Daily was forced to close in 2021. Charges include colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious materials. After his 2020 arrest he was sentenced to five years and nine months for fraud related to Apple Daily's headquarters lease. A Georgetown law researcher said the court usually takes months to deliver a written verdict before a mitigation hearing. The trial has lasted nearly 150 days.
Previously, the judges indicated a verdict might come in October. The 77-year-old defendant was arrested in 2020 following Beijing's imposition of a controversial national security law. He has been held in custody ever since. Lai's Apple Daily newspaper was forced to close in 2021. During his trial, Lai faced charges of "colluding with foreign forces" and "publishing seditious materials."
Appeal still possible Eric Lai, a research fellow at Georgetown Center for Asian Law (GCAL), told DW the Hong Kong court usually takes months to deliver a written verdict before holding a separate mitigation hearing. The trial of Jimmy Lai has lasted for nearly 150 daysImage: Chan Long Hei/AP/picture alliance "We will also need to see whether Jimmy Lai will appeal against his conviction and sentence," he added.
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