Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho: 'If Necessary, We Will Inspect Prosecutors' Regarding Former Cheongju City Councilor Choi Young-joong Case

Minister of Justice Jung Sung-ho stated regarding the investigation into former Cheongju City Councilor Choi Young-joong on child prostitution allegations, "If necessary, we will also conduct an inspection."

During an emergency pending issues session of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee today (the 22nd), Minister Jung made the remarks in response to criticism that prosecutors dismissed a communication warrant requested by the police, saying, "I will examine in detail whether it was an appropriate judgment."

On this day, lawmakers from the Democratic Party of Korea pointed out that the prosecution's dismissal of the police's application for a communication warrant disrupted the investigation.

Minister Jung said, "I reprimanded high-ranking prosecutors quite a bit, telling them that they lack sensitivity toward the suffering experienced by the victim and the emotions of the general public," adding, "I told them that they should actively investigate and consult together to supplement any shortcomings in the prosecution's initial warrant requests, and that they must not act this way."

He also stated, "If we have caused concern to the public or those involved, I think it is regrettable."

Representative Kim Yong-min of the Democratic Party requested Minister Jung, "If there is volatile evidence, prosecutors can immediately request a preservation order from communication service providers even without a warrant," asking, "If preservation measures can be taken even today, please do so." Minister Jung replied, "I will ensure that immediate measures are taken."

However, Minister Jung noted, "Seizing mobile phones containing electronic information is the most important thing, but securing the mobile phone was considerably delayed," and added, "Although the warrant was dismissed, if necessity is recognized, it can be reapplied for."

Previously, the Cheongju Cheongwon Police Station applied for a search and seizure warrant and a communication warrant against former Councilor Choi to the prosecution on the 9th, about four months after receiving a complaint from a victimized middle school girl in February.

The Cheongju District Prosecutors Office dismissed the communication warrant, stating that "it is not confirmed whether additional victims exist, so the necessity of the request is not recognized," and requested supplementary investigation for the search and seizure warrant, stating that additional search locations should be added and contents specifying the workplace address and vehicle should be attached.

Subsequently, the police reapplied for the search and seizure warrant on the 13th, and it was issued.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.