Life Sentence for Main Perpetrator, 12 Years for Accomplice

A Shocking Verdict

On Monday, the Handan Intermediate People's Court in Hebei Province delivered the first-instance verdict in the intentional homicide case involving three juvenile suspects, Zhang, Li, and Ma. The case, which shocked the nation, involved the killing of a classmate at a junior high school.

Zhang, the main perpetrator, was sentenced to life imprisonment for intentional homicide and lifelong deprivation of political rights. Li, who actively participated in the crime, received a 12-year prison sentence for intentional homicide. Ma, who witnessed the murder but did not directly participate, was exempted from criminal punishment due to his young age.

The court found that Zhang and Li, both 13 years old at the time of the crime, had planned to murder their classmate, Wang, after a conflict arose between them. Zhang lured Wang to an abandoned vegetable greenhouse, where he and Li attacked and killed him. Ma, who was present during the attack, left the scene before the murder took place.

Following the crime, Zhang and Li stole money from Wang's WeChat account and disposed of his phone and SIM card. Ma confessed to the crime and led the police to the burial site.

The court concluded that Zhang and Li's actions constituted intentional homicide, with Zhang bearing the greatest responsibility as the principal offender. Li, who actively participated in the crime, was also considered a principal offender but with lesser culpability.

The case has sparked widespread discussion about juvenile delinquency and the need for stronger measures to protect children. The court's verdict, while delivering justice for the victim's family, also raises questions about the rehabilitation of young offenders and the prevention of future tragedies.