Former Abbot of Shaolin Temple Sentenced to 24 Years for Corruption

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Former Abbot of Shaolin Temple Sentenced to 24 Years for Corruption

2 hours ago

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SCMP

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BBC

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Former Abbot of Shaolin Temple Sentenced to 24 Years for Corruption

Credited from: BBC

Shi Yongxin, former abbot of Shaolin Temple, sentenced to 24 years in prison.
He was found guilty of embezzling over $19 million and bribery.
Shi confessed to his crimes and will not appeal the verdict.
Fined approximately $516,000 (£420,000) following his conviction.
The case highlights extensive corruption within a renowned cultural institution.

Shi Yongxin, the former abbot of the iconic Shaolin Temple, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for serious crimes including embezzlement and bribery. As reported by state media, he was also fined about $516,000 following the court's ruling in central Henan Province, with state agency Xinhua confirming the verdict SCMP, Reuters, BBC, and LA Times.

The court revealed that Shi misappropriated temple assets amounting to over $19 million and had engaged in bribery that totaled around 300 million yuan over nearly three decades. He admitted his guilt and stated he would not appeal the court's decision, showing remorse for his actions Reuters, BBC, and LA Times.

An investigation revealed Shi had used his role to misappropriate funds from temple construction projects and gave large bribes to officials. Additionally, allegations arose regarding his personal conduct, including violating Buddhist precepts by maintaining improper relationships with multiple women BBC and LA Times.