Hong Kong Police Officer Jailed for Sick Leave Fraud During 2019 Protests

A Hong Kong police officer has been sentenced to six months in jail for fraudulently obtaining four months of paid sick leave during the period of widespread protests and unrest in 2019.

Fraudulent Claim During Protest Period

Suspended police officer Jeffrey Tam appeared at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and received his verdict. The case centers on an incident over six years ago, when Tam sought medical treatment for a hernia. During a consultation, he told a doctor he was a fitness trainer whose job required consistently high-intensity physical work.

Based on this information, the doctor issued a 54-day sick leave certificate, covering the period from October 2019 to February 2020. Magistrate Amy Chan stated she believed Tam intentionally misrepresented his job duties to avoid deployment to the front lines during the protests.

Evidence presented during the trial included a WhatsApp conversation between Tam and his supervisor, in which Tam admitted to telling the doctor he was a fitness trainer. Chan also noted that Tam’s testimony during the trial was entirely unreliable.

Magistrate Chan further stated that Tam’s actions were inconsistent with his claim of loving his job as a police officer and not wanting to defraud the force. She also pointed out that Tam was aware the police force could have offered alternative, lighter duties based on his medical condition, and questioned why he did not request such accommodations instead of seeking full sick leave.

Following the verdict, the defense requested an appeal and sought bail for Tam, but Magistrate Chan denied both requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges was Jeffrey Tam convicted of?

Jeffrey Tam was convicted of fraud for making false claims to obtain paid sick leave.

During what period did Tam allegedly commit the fraud?

The fraudulent claims relate to a period of sick leave from October 2019 to February 2020, coinciding with the 2019 protests and unrest in Hong Kong.

What evidence was used to convict Tam?

Evidence used in the trial included a WhatsApp conversation between Tam and his supervisor, as well as testimony deemed unreliable by Magistrate Chan.

As Tam’s legal team pursues an appeal, it remains to be seen whether the conviction will stand. Depending on the outcome of the appeal, Tam could remain incarcerated or be granted bail pending further legal proceedings. The case may also prompt further scrutiny of sick leave procedures within the Hong Kong Police Force.