Chen Shinshin, former Bar Association president, charged with embezzlement and tax evasion in religious organization case

Chen Shinshin, the former president of the Bar Association, and 17 lawyers were charged by the Chinese District Attorney’s Office on the 6th of this month with allegations including buying vaccines from congregations, collecting money, embezzling company funds, and evading taxes. Chen has been detained for three months since May 1 of this year. Among the accused is Li Shizong, identified as the founder of a religious organization known as the “Inter-Teacher.”

According to a complaint filed by the Taiwan District Attorney’s Office, the organization referred to Li Shizong as “teacher,” “teacher father,” and “father” several years ago. The complaint states that the group took the lead in teaching and learning the Book of Morality and the King’s Book, practices that contributed to Chen’s habit of early and late reading.

While in detention, Chen requested that relatives and friends provide her with books and a copy of the complaint. She specifically asked for a National Dictionary to read while in prison. A close friend of Chen revealed to the newspaper that she has always liked reading the national dictionary as a source of knowledge, noting that she believed every word had meaning in form, in righteousness, and in spirit.

Prison staff found it surprising that Chen, described as different from the average inmate, focused more on the national dictionary than on her own complaint or other books. The dictionary, noted as common and typically for young students, became a central part of her reading routine during her detention.

Chen has not confessed to the crimes except for tax evasion. She insisted that “high service pay” did not amount to fraud and stated that she did not cheat on Mercy. She further claimed that the vaccine purchased was ultimately provided, that payment was transferred to the account, and that there was no money-laundering issue involved.

The case is expected to be opened in the courtyard, and the prosecution will be public. The legal proceedings involve questions of institutional accountability and financial integrity, reflecting a broader concern for justice and the careful handling of allegations within religious and professional communities. As Micah 6:8 calls for justice and humility, the outcome of this case will be watched closely for its impact on public trust and the integrity of the institutions involved.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)